Section 3.1

True vs. Magnetic North

While True North stays put, Magnetic North can move around because of shifts in Earth’s magnetic field. This moving target helps compasses point in the right direction, using magnetic forces to keep us on track when we’re planning our flight missions, as well as navigating terrain when out in the field.

Definitions: True North vs. Magnetic North

True North is the fixed geographic point, while Magnetic North fluctuates based on Earth’s magnetic field and is determined by a compass.

True North:

    True North provides a fixed and reliable direction towards the northernmost point on our planet.

    True North points directly towards the geographic North Pole.

    It serves as a consistent and unchanging navigational marker given it aligns with the precise axis of the Earth’s rotation.

    On any map, the representation of True North is depicted by lines of longitude converging at the North Pole.

    Magnetic North:

      Magnetic North is the direction that a compass needle points towards, influenced by the Earth’s magnetic field.

      Using a magnetic compass when navigating terrain is a necessity for you to determine your direction and maintain a steady course.

      Putting the Two Together:

        True North is like the rock that doesn’t budge, but Magnetic North likes to move around thanks to Earth’s magnetic field shifting over time.

        The Magnetic Pole
        Shifting Over Time

        “Is True North preferred over Magnetic North when navigating on maps due to the gradual shift of the Magnetic North Pole over time? And what has been the approximate rate of this shift over the past two decades?”

        Yes, when navigating on maps, especially for aviation and other precise purposes, True North is commonly used as a reference instead of Magnetic North. The reason is that the Magnetic North Pole shifts over time due to changes in the Earth’s magnetic field, which can introduce inaccuracies over extended periods.

        As of January 2022, the Magnetic North Pole has been moving at an average rate of about 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) per year over the past two decades. However, it’s important to note that this rate of movement can vary.

        View the map below to see the course the Magnetic North Pole has been charting since 1632 up until 2020.

        Practice Quiz

        True vs. Magnetic North

        1 / 6

        What is the direction towards the geographic North Pole, providing a fixed and reliable navigational marker?

        2 / 6

        How does Magnetic North differ from True North?

        3 / 6

        Why is True North preferred over Magnetic North for precise navigation on maps?

        4 / 6

        What does Magnetic North depend on for its determination?

        5 / 6

        Why might the use of Magnetic North be problematic over long periods for navigation?

        6 / 6

        How does the shift of the Magnetic North Pole affect navigation with a compass?

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