Navigation General · Compass Error
What is the primary advantage of a gyrocompass over a magnetic compass aboard a steel vessel?
- AA gyrocompass is less expensive and easier to maintain
- BA gyrocompass seeks true north and is unaffected by the ship's magnetic field✓ Correct
- CA gyrocompass has a shorter settling time after a course change
- DA gyrocompass is the only compass approved by the USCG for ocean passages
Explanation
A gyrocompass uses gyroscopic inertia and precession to seek true north regardless of surrounding magnetism. It is therefore unaffected by the vessel's own magnetic field (deviation) or by local magnetic anomalies.
Authority: Bowditch (Pub. 9)
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