What is the significance of the term "dead reckoning"?

The term "dead reckoning" is significant in navigation as it refers to a method of navigating based on a known starting position and calculating one’s current position by taking into account the direction and distance traveled from that starting point. This technique allows mariners to estimate their current location without the need for external references, such as landmarks or celestial bodies, which can be particularly valuable in open water or when visibility is poor.

Dead reckoning involves keeping track of speed, time, and direction, enabling navigators to plot their course effectively even when direct visibility of navigational aids is compromised. This method is essential for safe and accurate navigation, especially in commercial boating, where timely and precise position estimates are critical for operational efficiency.