GPS (Global Positioning System)
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A Global Positioning System (GPS) in sailing is a satellite-based navigation tool providing precise, real-time data on a vessel's position (latitude/longitude), speed, and heading. It is used for plotting courses, tracking routes, and calculating key performance metrics like Velocity Made Good (VMG).
Key Benefits of GPS in Sailing:
Navigation: Allows accurate positioning, even in low visibility or in the middle of the ocean.
Performance Tracking: Used by racers to analyze speed and routing, particularly with specialized marine handhelds.
Safety: Facilitates quick identification of locations for search and rescue.
Commonly confused terms include CMG (Course Made Good), which is the bearing from the starting point to the current position, whereas COG is the instantaneous direction.
Key Benefits of GPS in Sailing:
Navigation: Allows accurate positioning, even in low visibility or in the middle of the ocean.
Performance Tracking: Used by racers to analyze speed and routing, particularly with specialized marine handhelds.
Safety: Facilitates quick identification of locations for search and rescue.
Commonly confused terms include CMG (Course Made Good), which is the bearing from the starting point to the current position, whereas COG is the instantaneous direction.