Definition of Backstaff. Meaning of Backstaff. Synonyms of Backstaff

Here you will find one or more explanations in English for the word Backstaff. Also in the bottom left of the page several parts of wikipedia pages related to the word Backstaff and, of course, Backstaff synonyms and on the right images related to the word Backstaff.

Definition of Backstaff

Backstaff
Backstaff Back"staff`, n. An instrument formerly used for taking the altitude of the heavenly bodies, but now superseded by the quadrant and sextant; -- so called because the observer turned his back to the body observed.

Meaning of Backstaff from wikipedia

- The backstaff is a navigational instrument that was used to measure the altitude of a celestial body, in particular the Sun or Moon. When observing the...
- the cross-staff could not compete with the backstaff in many countries. In terms of handling, the backstaff was found to be more easy to use. However,...
- Also, unlike the backstaff, the ****tant allows direct observations of stars. This permits the use of the ****tant at night when a backstaff is difficult to...
- back observation quadrant. This instrument was used in the manner of a backstaff to measure the elevation of the sun by observing the position of a shadow...
- 1496 by the Castilian Jew Abraham Zacut, then exiled in Portugal. The backstaff, which measures the length of a shadow, was used from the 16th century...
- maps. Seventeenth century marine navigation and cartography used the "backstaff" which, in this area, was accurate to one degree of longitude, or around...
- angle of the sun or a star above the horizon with an instrument such as a backstaff or quadrant. Longitude was more difficult to measure accurately because...
- equivalent type of sundial using a vertical rod of fixed length is known as a backstaff dial. A shepherd's dial – also known as a shepherd's column dial, pillar...
- pear tree or boxwood, with an arch of 15° to 30°, it is an example of a backstaff. The sun casts that shadow of a vane (B in the adjacent image) on a horizon...
- devices based on the same principle were used, notably the cross-staff and backstaff. The kamal is still a tool recommended for use in sea kayaking. In such...