Take 10 #10: Aids to Navigation
In this issue of The Navigator, articles have focused on aids to navigation, their challenges and developments. Here are ten key points to bear in mind
Use Take 10 to remind yourself of the key points to keep in mind when dealing with aids to navigation.
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1 Physical presence
Physical aids to navigation are still essential for visual reference and situational awareness at sea
2 The LED look
Aids to navigation are often enhanced with modern LED lights, which can change the way they look and operate
3 Double data
Aids to navigation can be enhanced with sensors and communication technology, allowing them to transmit hydrographical and meteorological data in real time
4 AIS augmentation
Virtual aids to navigation can be augmented by AIS technology to provide additional information, confirm position or allow an aid to navigation to be represented where physical aids cannot be established
5 GNSS/GPS weakness warning
Virtual aids to navigation using AIS technology can suffer from the weaknesses of the GNSS/GPS systems and VHF capability
6 Symbol awareness
Virtual aids to navigation have a variety of symbols and functions. Navigators must make themselves familiar with them all, just as they do with their physical equivalents
7 Wrecking havoc?
Every effort is made by authorities to mark recent wrecks with aids to navigation, both virtual and physical. Navigators must remember though, that in the early hours or days of a wreck, not all hazards may have been identified or reported accurately
8 Aid to team talk
Discussing the use and function of aids to navigation offers a great platform for mentoring and bridge team discussions
9 IALA information
IALA is the international body coordinating and harmonising the use of all aids to navigation. A wide range of free resources and publications are available online at www.iala-aism.org
10 Express your opinion
Many government authorities around the world are experimenting with the use and presentation of physical and virtual aids to navigation. Navigators who wish to comment on their use are encouraged to contact those authorities, or The Nautical Institute via LinkedIn or by sending an email: [email protected]
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