Encyclopedia > B > Backstaff
Backstaff
The backstaff, or back-quadrant, is a navigational tool that was used to determine latitude. It worked the same way as the cross staff and astrolabe except instead of looking at the sun, users kept the sun to their back (hence the name) which prevented damage to their eyes.
Information are taken from Wikipedia, the open encyclopedia, to which contribute many volunteers from around the whole world. Texts are available under the following conditions GNU Free Documentation License.
Encyklopedie (cz) Encyklopédia (sk) Enzyklopädie (de)