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Module 6 โ€” Position, Course & Speed

Measuring Distance on the Chart

Distance is measured using dividers on the latitude scale at the side of the chart. Set the dividers to the distance you want to measure on the chart, then transfer them to the latitude scale. Read the distance in nautical miles and tenths.

Use the latitude scale at roughly the same latitude as the area you're measuring โ€” the scale changes slightly as you move north or south on a Mercator chart.

Key Points

  • ALWAYS use the LATITUDE scale (side of chart) for distance
  • 1 minute of latitude = 1 nautical mile
  • Use the latitude scale at the same latitude as your measurement
  • Never use the longitude scale for distance

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