Beveled Scale Sextant

Although each form of altitude measuring instrument had special advantages, it was the sextant that ultimately proved to be the most accurate. In 1757, Captain John Campbell, disappointed with the sea trials of the newly conceived reflecting circle, had an octant constructed with its arc extended to one-sixth of a circle so that angles up to 120° could be measured. This was named a "sextant" and its use has continued to the present day.

For more information, e-mail collections@MarinersMuseum.org.