Etymology: Derived from Medieval Latin "sextans" (sixth part), ultimately from Latin "sextus" (sixth).
Meaning:
A sextant is a navigational instrument used to measure the angle between the horizon and a celestial body, such as the sun, moon, or stars.
Origin:
Ancient Precursors: - Ancient mariners used primitive instruments, such as the astrolabe and quadrant, to measure angles for navigation.
1480s-1500s: - The first known sextant was developed by Johannes Müller von Königsberg (Regiomontanus) in the late 15th century. It had a single graduated arc and a graduated arm called a radius vector.
16th Century: - In the mid-16th century, Petrus Apianus improved Regiomontanus's sextant by adding a second graduated arc. This allowed for more precise measurements.
17th Century: - The sextant underwent further improvements by Tycho Brahe and Johannes Hevelius, who added telescopes and verniers to enhance accuracy.
18th Century: - John Hadley and Thomas Godfrey independently invented the reflecting sextant around 1731. This design used mirrors to reflect the celestial body onto the graduated arc, allowing for more accurate and convenient measurements.
Modern Sextants: - The basic design of the reflecting sextant has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Modern sextants are typically made of brass or plastic and incorporate electronic components for improved accuracy and ease of use.
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