The Marine Chronometer

A marine chronometer is a highly precise clock used by sailors to determine their exact longitude at sea. Accurate timekeeping is essential because it allows navigators to compare local time with the time at a known reference point (like Greenwich Mean Time). By measuring the difference, they can calculate their east-west position on the globe. Unlike regular watches, marine chronometers are specially designed to remain accurate despite the ship’s movement, temperature changes, and humidity. This invention was crucial for safe and accurate ocean navigation before the advent of modern electronic systems.