Jeff Morris wrote:
I used to think that using lunars was common until radio time signals finally
eliminated issues about chronometer expense and accuracy around 1912. Then I
came across a tutorial written about 1890 which complained that although the
technique of lunar distances was still taught, they were considered too tedious
by most seamen and had pretty much fallen into disuse.

Jax is probably correct that it was little used around 1800. Even after
Bowditch was published in 1802 there were very few seamen who could handle the
math.

I believe there is a minor resurgence now that most computer programs will
handle the nasty math.

G Think you just pulled an "otn". I think it was extensively used
around 1800, but had fallen to a point of much less use by 1900.
The advent of the radio as standard equipment on ships and the use of
the "time tick", should have been it's final end.
If it should have a minor resurgence today, it will only be as one that
some "purist" will use, as long as his computer batteries last.
It would take someone with an interest in research, but I think you'll
find the governing factor regarding the decline of "Lunar's" was the
common use of the chronometer, not the "time tick" ..... the time tick
just made the chronometer more reliable.

otn