hyperbolic navigation system

The Oxford Companion to Ships and the Sea | 2006 | 700+ words | Copyright

hyperbolic navigation system. If an observer measures the difference in distance from two identifiable points he will establish a position line in the shape of a hyperbola. The speed of radio waves being constant, the difference in arrival time of synchronized signals from a pair of separate transmitters will locate the receiver on a hyperbolic line of position. This is the basis of those radio navigation systems known as hyperbolic. In practice the transmitters are so grouped as to provide a number of hyperbolic position lines that will intersect to provide a fix. All hyperbolic systems require special receivers and lattice charts on which to plot the signals received. All except Loran-C are now operationally obsolete.

See also consol; decca; omega.

Mike Richey

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