Quick Answer
Understanding true north versus magnetic north is crucial for accurate navigation in the wilderness and for orienting oneself during emergencies, as magnetic north can be several degrees off from true north due to the Earth's magnetic field variations.
Magnetic vs True North
Magnetic north, also known as the Earth’s magnetic pole, is the point on the Earth’s surface where the planet’s magnetic field lines converge. However, the Earth’s magnetic field is constantly shifting due to changes in the Earth’s core, causing magnetic north to drift over time. This shift can result in a difference of up to 20 degrees between magnetic north and true north.
Declination and Navigation
The difference between magnetic north and true north is known as declination. To navigate accurately, it’s essential to understand the declination for your specific location. In the United States, for example, declination varies from -20 degrees in the western states to +20 degrees in the eastern states. By accounting for declination, you can use a compass to orient yourself to true north, which is essential for finding your way back to civilization or to a specific destination. To do this, use a declination chart or consult a map to determine the declination for your area, then adjust your compass accordingly. A rough rule of thumb is to adjust your compass by 1-2 degrees for every 100 miles from the magnetic north pole.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.