Customer Reviews

From Sails to Satellites: The Origin and Development of Navigational Science

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I am referring to the book as a "history of navigational science" not of navigation as the author takes pains to explain and detail the scientific developments that enabled navigation as we know it. As of today (2011) the book needs a new edition to address the revolution of handheld GPS units, WAAS accuracy and the pervasive use in todays cellular phones, but still it is a facinating read. If I had written this review in 1992 I would have given it 5 stars.
Part of the book appeal lies in the free expression of the author thinking with regard to various icons of our scientific past and his dry sense of humour. He makes many detours in the telling but always in an interseting direction. The more wide is the scope of your interests beyond strict navigation, the more you would like this book.

As a professional navigator and surveyor, I consider this to be one of the most enlightening books I have ever read. I found it on a remainders table in a book store in Port Townsend, WA in 1992. Which was the year it was published, but it was selling for only a few bucks $US. Still cannot believe that, it must have been fate for me.

It is an absolute treasure and the best book you will ever find on navigation since Bowditch. If the history and science of navigation intriques you in any way: Find it, get it. Every chapter is a wealth of knowledge. The footnotes alone are fascinating.

I liked the part about the marine chronometer.