Compass vs. Sextant — What's the Difference?

Often used metaphorically to represent guidance or moral direction.

Precision instrument for finding the altitude of celestial bodies.

A device that indicates direction by a freely moving magnetic needle.

Historically vital for long-distance sea travel.

A navigational instrument that shows directions in a frame of reference that is stationary relative to the surface of the Earth.

Requires clear skies and a steady hand to operate effectively.

Can be digital or analog, each type serving different navigational needs.

Often associated with maritime history and exploration.

An instrument crucial for orientation in navigation and location-based activities.

A tool used to measure the angle between any two visible objects, primarily in navigation.

A compass is a device that shows the cardinal directions used for navigation and geographic orientation. It commonly consists of a magnetized needle or other element, such as a compass card or compass rose, which can pivot to align itself with magnetic north.

A sextant is a doubly reflecting navigation instrument that measures the angular distance between two visible objects. The primary use of a sextant is to measure the angle between an astronomical object and the horizon for the purposes of celestial navigation.

An instrument containing a magnetized pointer which shows the direction of magnetic north and bearings from it

An instrument with a graduated arc of 60° and a sighting mechanism, used for measuring the angular distances between objects and especially for taking altitudes in navigation and surveying.

An instrument for drawing circles and arcs and measuring distances between points, consisting of two arms linked by a movable joint, one arm ending in a point and the other usually carrying a pencil or pen

A navigational instrument containing a graduated 60-degree arc, used for measuring the altitudes of celestial bodies for use in determining the latitude and longitude of the observer.

The range or scope of something

Sextant See Sextans.

Go round (something) in a circular course

(nautical) A navigational device for deriving angular distances between objects so as to determine latitude and longitude.

Contrive to accomplish (something)

(geometry) One sixth of a circle or disc; a sector with an angle of 60°.

A device used to determine geographic direction, usually consisting of a magnetic needle or needles horizontally mounted or suspended and free to pivot until aligned with the earth's magnetic field.

(dentistry) One of six groups of adjacent teeth, excluding the wisdom teeth. The front sextants go from canine to canine, and there are sextants on the right and left of these. See w:Periodontal examination.

Another device, such as a radio compass or a gyrocompass, used for determining geographic direction.

The sixth part of a circle.

A V-shaped device for describing circles or circular arcs and for taking measurements, consisting of a pair of rigid, end-hinged legs, one of which is equipped with a pen, pencil, or other marker and the other with a sharp point providing a pivot about which the drawing leg is turned. Also called pair of compasses.

An instrument for measuring angular distances between objects, - used esp. at sea, for ascertaining the latitude and longitude. It is constructed on the same optical principle as Hadley's quadrant, but usually of metal, with a nicer graduation, telescopic sight, and its arc the sixth, and sometimes the third, part of a circle. See Quadrant.

Awareness or understanding of one's purpose or objectives

The constellation Sextans.

An enclosing line or boundary; a circumference

A unit of angular distance equal to 60 degrees

A restricted space or area

A measuring instrument for measuring the angular distance between celestial objects; resembles an octant

Range or scope, as of understanding, perception, or authority

(Music) See range.

To make a circuit of; circle

To surround; encircle

To understand; comprehend

To accomplish or bring about

To gain or achieve

Forming a curve.

A magnetic or electronic device used to determine the cardinal directions (usually magnetic or true north).

A pair of compasses (a device used to draw an arc or circle).

(music) The range of notes of a musical instrument or voice.

(obsolete) A space within limits; an area.

(obsolete) An enclosing limit; a boundary, a circumference.

Moderate bounds, limits of truth; moderation; due limits; used with within.

(archaic) Scope.

(obsolete) Range, reach.

(obsolete) A passing round; circuit; circuitous course.

To surround; to encircle; to environ; to stretch round.

To go about or round entirely; to traverse.

(dated) To accomplish; to reach; to achieve; to obtain.

(dated) To plot; to scheme (against someone).

(obsolete) In a circuit; round about.

A passing round; circuit; circuitous course.

An inclosing limit; boundary; circumference; as, within the compass of an encircling wall.

An inclosed space; an area; extent.

Extent; reach; sweep; capacity; sphere; as, the compass of his eye; the compass of imagination.

Moderate bounds, limits of truth; moderation; due limits; - used with within.

The range of notes, or tones, within the capacity of a voice or instrument.

An instrument for determining directions upon the earth's surface by means of a magnetized bar or needle turning freely upon a pivot and pointing in a northerly and southerly direction.

A pair of compasses.

A circle; a continent.

To go about or entirely round; to make the circuit of.

To inclose on all sides; to surround; to encircle; to environ; to invest; to besiege; - used with about, round, around, and round about.

To reach round; to circumvent; to get within one's power; to obtain; to accomplish.

To curve; to bend into a circular form.

Navigational instrument for finding directions

An area in which something acts or operates or has power or control:

The limit of capability;

Drafting instrument used for drawing circles

Bring about; accomplish;

Travel around, either by plane or ship;

Get the meaning of something;

It is used to find direction based on magnetic north.

It measures the angular distance between an astronomical object and the horizon.

Yes, though its accuracy can be affected by magnetic anomalies.

They can be, as they are less susceptible to interference and can provide additional data.

Knowledge of astronomy and basic trigonometry are essential.

No, it only indicates direction, not your precise location.

While it can be used on land, it is most effective and commonly used at sea.

Calibration involves adjusting mirrors and the index arm to ensure accurate readings.

They provide a reliable backup for GPS systems, especially in remote areas.

No, both are manual, though digital compasses may require batteries.

It played a crucial role in the age of discovery and in the development of the world's sea routes.

Basic orientation and navigation courses are recommended.

Magnetic interference and local magnetic variations can affect its accuracy.

It is very accurate, capable of measuring angles to within 0.1 degrees.

Traditionally, brass and sometimes aluminum for modern versions.