Chart Navigation & Plotting · Fixes — Best Angle of Cut
For the most reliable two-bearing fix, the lines of position should cross at an angle nearest:
- A90°✓ Correct
- B20°
- C160°
- D10°
Explanation
Two LOPs give the strongest fix when they intersect at right angles (90°), minimizing the error ellipse. Objects roughly 60°–120° apart in bearing are preferred; nearly parallel LOPs (small or near-180° cut angles) produce a poorly defined position.
Authority: Bowditch (Pub. No. 9), Quality of a Fix
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