backstaff Antonyms
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Meaning of backstaff
backstaff (n.)
An instrument formerly used for taking the altitude of the heavenly bodies, but now superseded by the quadrant and sextant; -- so called because the observer turned his back to the body observed.
FAQs About the word backstaff
An instrument formerly used for taking the altitude of the heavenly bodies, but now superseded by the quadrant and sextant; -- so called because the observer tu
No synonyms found.
No antonyms found.
The backstaff, a historical navigational tool, played a crucial role in seafaring during the Age of Exploration.
Captain Cook relied heavily on the backstaff during his voyages, employing it to calculate longitude accurately.
The principle of the backstaff involves measuring the angular distance between the horizon and a celestial object.
Unlike the astrolabe, the backstaff can be used effectively even when the horizon is not clearly visible.
