On 14 January your 0746 zone time DR position is LAT 26°37.0'N, LONG 153°19.0'W. At that time, you observe the Sun bearing 123°psc. The chronometer reads 05h 49m 16s, and the chronometer error is 02m 29s fast. The variation is 3°W. What is the deviation of the standard magnetic compass?

Question

On 14 January your 0746 zone time DR position is LAT 26&deg;37.0'N, LONG 153&deg;19.0'W. At that time, you observe the Sun bearing 123&deg;psc. The chronometer reads 05h 49m 16s, and the chronometer error is 02m 29s fast. The variation is 3&deg;W. What is the deviation of the standard magnetic compass?

Accepted Answer

Option A: 1.4&deg;W. Determine the Sun's true azimuth using the Nautical Almanac. The difference between the true azimuth and the compass bearing of 123°psc provides the compass error. Applying the 3°W variation to the formula Error = Variation + Deviation results in a deviation of 1.4°W, accurately reflecting the compass correction process.