Pelorus

Pelorus

Item Details

Period of Use: Circa WWII
Description:
A navigational instrument resembling a compass with sighting vanes/telescope, used to determine relative bearings and help with maritime navigation. It has no magnetic properties and can be set to different headings to observe bearings.
Item History:
The pelorus has been used by mariners for centuries and is still in general use today. It can help track ship positions, measure bearings, and assist in navigation by providing precise directional information. No independent directive properties. Can convert relative bearings to true/magnetic/grid bearings. Useful for determining navigation aid positions. Can be permanently mounted or portable.
Location/Ownership: Monterey Maritime & History Museum, Monterey History & Art Association
Submission Author: Jack Reichel, Reichel Technology