Rapid Sight Reduction Tables Volume 1.

The Rapid Sight Reduction Tables for Navigation consist of three volumes of tables of altitude and azimuth designed for the rapid reduction of astronomical sights. Volume I, used by both the marine and air navigator, contains altitude and true azimuth values of seven selected stars for the complete ranges of latitude and hour angle of Aries. These seven stars represent the best selection for observation at any given position and time, and provide the data for presetting instruments before observation and for sight reduction afterwards. Volume 1 contains tables for selected stars for all latitudes, calculated for the epoch of 2015, it is intended for use for 5 years, when a new edition will be issued. Volume 1 contains the altitude to 1' and true azimuth to 1#65533; for the seven stars most suitable for finding your position with a sextant, for the complete range of latitudes and hour angles of Aries. The latest edition is that for epoch ending 2020. This publication is aimed at the navigator using astro-navigation and provides the optimum selection of stars for a three-star fix. Volume 2 and Volume 3 contain values of the altitude to 1' and azimuth to 1#65533; for integral degrees of declination from 29#65533; north to 29#65533; south, for the complete range of latitudes and for all hour angles at which the zenith distance is less than 95#65533; (97#65533; between latitudes 70#65533; and the poles) providing for sights of the Sun, Moon and planets. Volume 2 covers latitudes between 0#65533; and 40#65533;. Volume 3 covers latitudes between 39#65533; and 89 Sight Reduction Tables for Air Navigation are published in the USA as Pub. No. 249, and in the UK as Rapid Sight Reduction Tables for Navigation AP 3270/NP 303. The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is responsible for the compilation and composition of these tables. The Nautical Almanac Office of the U.S. Naval Observatory and H.M.Nautical Almanac Office (HMNAO) of the UK Hydrographic Office have cooperated in their design and preparation. The content and format of these three volumes may not be changed without the approval of Working Party 70 of the Air Standardization Coordinating Committee