Astronavigation has the status of a secret science from the last millennium - interesting, demanding, completely outdated and far too strenuous. Most water sports enthusiasts only study it - if at all - in preparation for an exam, such as the German Sporthochseeschifferschein (SHS) or the British RYA Yachtmaster Ocean.In the event of a total power failure on board or interference with satellite signals, astronavigation is still regarded as THE backup for GPS & Co. But who can really switch to the navigation system of our ancestors on an ad hoc basis or even has the necessary nautical documents on board?Helmut Hoffrichter has developed a completely computerised method of determining location using the sun and a sextant, which he calls ‘postmodern astronavigation’. The revised, expanded 2025 edition of his book "Postmodern Astronavigation. Travelling with the sun" has been published.The book begins with an easy-to-understand review of the history of astronomical navigation. Hoffrichter then introduces his self-developed app ‘Circle of position navigation’ (Apple) and ‘Sun Navigation’ (Android).A sextant is used to measure the distance to the unmistakable sun. For the sake of simplicity, planets and fixed stars are left out as natural celestial bodies. After measuring the elevation angle, astronavigation traditionally begins with an extensive mathematical calculation and then a graphical approximation method. This was devised in 1875 by the French naval officer Marcq Saint-Hilaire (1832-1889) as an ‘emergency solution’ that was solely due to its time.Although mathematically exact navigation methods have been known since the mid-18th century, the calculation could not be automated without a computer. In Hoffmeister's app, the elevation angle measurements can simply be entered on a mobile device. Of course, the tablet or smartphone would have to run independently of the on-board power supply failure.The long-displaced methods of mathematicians Johannes Keppler (1571-1630) and Leonhard Euler (1707-1783) as well as the ephemeris are stored in the software, which performs the location calculation at lightning speed. After using the sextant, ‘postmodern astronavigation’ is as easy to use as the familiar satellite navigation on the chart plotter. Extensive nautical documentation is not required, nor do you have to do any calculations or drawings yourself.With ‘postmodern astronavigation’, a location can be determined more precisely with the help of the sun than with the Saint Hilaire altitude difference method. Since this does not even require a gissort, the art of earlier navigators is simplified to such an extent that a genuine, easy-to-use, practical navigation backup is now available.The chapters in detailHistory of astronavigationThe Sun Navigation appA little sextant loreAnalytical position determinationDead reckoningGreat circle calculationThe equation of timeAppendix, including an extract from the 1809 publication by Carl Friedrich Gauss (1777-1855) in which he solves the two-height problem188 pages, 70 illustrations and 15 tables, format 14.8 x 21 cm, hardback. German edition.

THE practical handbook for navigation on seagoing yachts.Sven M. Rutter has incorporated many valuable tips from his numerous specialist articles on the subject of navigation into this book. He provides beginners with the necessary basic knowledge for safe navigation at sea as well as experienced yacht skippers with valuable information for the selection and use of modern navigation systems.A clear structure and comprehensible language make it easy to use - a comprehensive glossary allows targeted reference. Every issue is explained in a comprehensible manner. No prior knowledge is required.Over the years, BESSER NAVIGIEREN has established itself as the standard work for navigation on seagoing yachts. Whether for exam preparation, for refreshing/updating existing knowledge, as a guide to well thought-out navigation equipment for your own yacht or as a reference book for practical use; whether on smaller coastal tours or on extended ocean cruises; whether classically with a course triangle and compass or with a chart plotter/navigation software/app, AIS and radar system - this book can be a helpful companion for many nautical miles.The book covers the complete navigation exam material for the Sportbootführerschein See (SBF See), Sportküstenschifferschein (SKS) and Sportseeschifferschein (SSS).The current edition also incorporates innovations and further developments in the field of electronic navigation, radar technology and AIS. Additional information and further practical tips have also been added.The reading sample - see further down on this page under "Downloads & Information" - gives a good first impression.376 pages, 388 colour illustrations, format 17 x 24 cm, hardcover. German edition.

Template for celestial navigation created by RYA Yachtmaster Ocean Instructor Leon Schulz in cooperation with the German sextant manufacturer Cassens & Plath.The clearly laid out DIN A4 sheet has proven itself in theory and practice and has helped hundreds of sailors to quickly understand, with helpful designations, information and notes, where in the sight reduction tables and Almanacs which values must be taken step by step.These are not only helpful for understanding celestial navigation, for example during an RYA Yachtmaster Ocean course, but above all as a later memory aid. The templates are clearly structured and provide step-by-step instructions on how to determine your own position.There is a template for observing the sun and one for determining the noon latitude.Each pad has 25 sheets (printed on one side). Texts in English.The free instructional videos on how to use the templates on Leon Schulz's homepage help you to familiarise yourself with the working method.www.reginasailing.com/celestial_videos/

A very detailed handbook for owners and enthusiasts of traditional sailing boats.The renowned British water sports journalist Tom Cunliffe describes manoeuvres, partly forgotten techniques of equipment, handling and maintenance of old ships.Beautiful photos and coloured hand drawings make the technical connections visible.In English language.176 pages, colour photos and drawings, format 19 x 24 cm, paperback.