Meridiana

Meridiana is a historical navigation instrument used by sailors to determine their latitude by measuring the angle of the Sun or a star above the horizon at a specific time. It typically consists of a vertical, adjustable metal or wooden staff (called a "gnomon") and a mirror or a sighting device. By aligning the device with a celestial object and noting its angle, navigators can calculate their north-south position at sea. Meridiana helped sailors improve the accuracy of their navigation before modern technology, playing a vital role in exploration and maritime travel.