This astronomical navigation workshop is perfect for those interested in learning about traditional navigation using the stars, sun, and planets.
We will make the route SEGUR DE CALAFELL - MENORCA - SEGUR DE CALAFELL.
The polar star, the planets and the constellations will guide us to Menorca enjoying our night sky without light pollution.
These 5 days of navigation may serve as preparation and training for the next Stella Oceani astronomical regatta.
No previous experience in astronomical navigation is required, and the workshop is suitable for both beginners and more experienced navigators.
We will use the planisphere, the sextant and the nautical charts, just as ancient navigators did.
We will also take advantage of these sailing days to enjoy the sea, anchor in coves, bathe and walk along the incredible beaches of Menorca.
It is not by chance that we are in love with the “island of the air” as it is also known or the “island of the 5 Lighthouses”. If to all the attractions of Menorca we add that of observing the sky, the experience is totally immersive. During the day we can relax with the landscape, with those transparent waters and the privilege of enjoying sailing, and at night, stretch out on deck and observe the celestial vault free of light pollution, learning to jump from star to star to be able to get to know them better.
The sailor has needed to read the sky to orient himself. The sun and the polar star have served not only to orient themselves, but to determine latitude and longitude; In short, to solve the question that the sailor always asked himself: where am I?
We will be able to enjoy the island at its best, before the anchorages become overcrowded, when we can still find those lonely coves and we can embrace a little piece of the Mediterranean for ourselves.
The trip will have several magical moments: two crossings in which we will sail at night, enjoy the sunsets, sunrises on the high seas, whale watching, etc.
We will arrive in Menorca and let ourselves be carried away by the color of its crystal clear waters, its contrasts between the wild north and the warm south, to wait for night to fall and with it a sky full of stars, like you have never seen before, appear before our eyes.
We will enjoy an intense journey between Segur de Calafell and Menorca. Here you will have to be aware of the possible sighting of cetaceans. Sailing on a sailboat with all the sails hoisted is a sensation that we must take advantage of one hundred percent.
The spacious and comfortable spaces of the boat and its "joyful sailing" captivate...
After a brief introduction to the history of navigation, the captain will explain how the ancient sailors used some instruments such as the astrolabe, the Kamal, the compass or the sextant. With the map, some binoculars and a laser pointer we will be able to explore some constellations.
Projecting five times the distance from Merak to Duhe in the Big Dipper will find Polaris. It is not a particularly bright star but it is without a doubt the most important for the sailor. Its position tells us in geographic north and if we measure its height our visible horizon will coincide with our latitude.
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