Old instruments
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method
Direct answer
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method is the celestial-navigation procedure comparing observed altitude with altitude computed for an assumed position.
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method is a modern intercept sight method used in historical astronomy, timekeeping, or navigation.
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At a glance
- Found in
- Historical Almanacs & Instruments
- Related
- Sight Reduction, Intercept Method, Line of Position, Celestial Position Fix
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method is a modern intercept sight method used in historical astronomy, timekeeping, or navigation.
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The story behind Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method
Developed in the nineteenth century, the method associated with Marcq de Saint-Hilaire became standard marine practice.
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Why Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method matters
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method matters because it allows a convenient assumed position and straightforward plotting instead of solving directly for the observer's coordinates.
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method in practice: an example
A navigator marks the assumed-position point, lays off the intercept on the azimuth, and draws the line at right angles.
Where readings of Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method go wrong
The named method is a complete workflow, not just the mnemonic used to choose toward or away.
Sources and editorial method
Research references used for this entry include:
- National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency: The American Practical Navigator - Official modern reference for navigation principles, celestial observations, sight reduction, and navigational tables.
- Source
- The Great Almanac Dictionary
- Category
- Historical Almanacs & Instruments
- Last updated
- 2026-09-26
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Common questions
What is Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method?
Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method is the celestial-navigation procedure comparing observed altitude with altitude computed for an assumed position.
What do people get wrong about Marcq Saint-Hilaire Method?
The named method is a complete workflow, not just the mnemonic used to choose toward or away.
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