nautical miles

A nautical mile is a unit of measurement used primarily in maritime and aviation contexts. It is equal to one minute of latitude on the Earth’s surface, approximately 1.15 miles or 1.85 kilometers. This measurement is essential for navigation because it corresponds to the Earth's curvature, allowing for more accurate calculations of distances over water. Unlike terrestrial miles, which are based on a flat surface, nautical miles accommodate the spherical shape of the Earth, making them more suitable for global navigation and ensuring consistency in charts and maps used by sailors and pilots.