On 23 March your 1600 ZT DR position is LAT 27°16.3' N, LONG 156°48.2' W. You are on course 063°T at a speed of 18.0 knots. Considering their magnitude, azimuth, and altitude, which group includes the three stars best suited for a fix at star time?

Correct Answer: Option A — Hamal, Rigel, Alphard

Effective star fixes require a wide azimuth spread to minimize the geometric dilution of precision. Hamal, Rigel, and Alphard provide the optimal distribution of bearings and altitudes for the specified DR position, ensuring the intersection of lines of position is as close to 90 degrees as possible.