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If you were the boss of a group of intergalactic explorers, what would you use as the "North" on the space compasses? (lemmy.ml)

submitted 2 months ago by CraigOhMyEggo@lemmy.ml to c/asklemmy@lemmy.ml

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On Earth, the cardinal directions are straightforward. The arrow on a compass points to the nearest magnetic pole. You can then use it to travel anywhere on Earth.

In space, the idea of anything being "central" enough to be used as a "North" (since the universe has no center) or being fixated enough to not somehow pose issues is more convoluted.

If you were a pioneer of space exploration, what would your "North" be?

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[–] Xiisadaddy@lemmygrad.ml 2 points 2 months ago

So i guess what your asking is what is the stationary point of reference that you use to calculate your position? You can use any object but typically you use whatever object your gravitationally bound to. Like in earth orbit you use earth, in interplanetary space you use the sun, in interstellar space it becomes more up to you. Center of galaxy maybe, or nearest star. Kinda depends what ur trying to do.