What does the term “dead reckoning” refer to?

The term "dead reckoning" refers to estimating a vessel's current position based on its last known position, speed, and course. This navigational method involves taking a known position and calculating the subsequent positions over time by factoring in the speed and heading of the vessel. As vessels move, their current positions change, and dead reckoning provides a systematic approach to update position estimates when direct visual fixes or GPS information may not be available.

Additionally, this method relies on maintaining accurate records of navigation, including any deviations caused by currents or wind. By doing so, a watchstander can effectively predict the vessel's position, which is crucial for safe navigation in various maritime scenarios.

Other options do not relate directly to the fundamental principles of dead reckoning. For example, calculating fuel consumption, determining repair needs, and measuring distances to the shoreline do not involve the continuous process of updating a vessel's position based on movement since the last known point. Understanding and using dead reckoning is critical for watchstanders to ensure safe and efficient course plotting during navigation.