Mapping Toolbox

Navigation

One field that makes extensive use of geographic information is navigational science and practice. The Mapping Toolbox includes a variety of specialized functions for navigation.

The practice of navigation includes a variety of tasks for the operation of both watercraft and aircraft. One task is establishing position, using known, fixed landmarks (piloting), employing the stars, Sun, and Moon (celestial navigation), utilizing technological fixing systems (radio and satellite navigation, including GPS), or deducing net movement from a past known position (dead reckoning).

Another navigational task involves planning a voyage or flight, which includes determining a short route (great circle approximation), weather avoidance (optimal track routing), and setting out a plan of intended movement (track laydown).

The Mapping Toolbox contains functions for some of these navigational activities.

Geographically Filtering Datasets

Conventions for Navigational Functions