Seafarers are increasingly returning to traditional methods of navigation as a backup to modern technologies like the Global Positioning System (GPS), which can be vulnerable to outages or interference. While GPS has become the primary tool for maritime navigation, experts stress that older techniques remain essential for ensuring safe passage on the oceans.

Unlike land navigation, where a compass and map can be supplemented by visible landmarks, ocean navigation requires additional instruments due to the lack of fixed reference points. One such tool is the sextant, a device developed approximately 300 years ago that allows sailors to determine their position by measuring the angle between celestial bodies—such as the sun and stars—and the horizon.

The practice of astronavigation, using celestial sightings to guide ships, is seeing renewed emphasis in maritime training programs. Proponents argue that this method offers a reliable alternative when satellite-based systems are unavailable, whether due to technical failures, deliberate jamming, or other disruptions.

"There is no way to switch off the sun and the stars," noted Patrick O’Donovan from Kilbrittain, County Cork, Ireland, highlighting the enduring nature of celestial navigation. This perspective underscores ongoing efforts to equip mariners with skills that ensure continued safe navigation even in scenarios where GPS and radio beacons might be compromised.

While modern navigation technologies provide unprecedented accuracy and convenience, the commitment to teaching traditional methods reflects a recognition of their value as a critical fallback. As global maritime traffic continues to expand, maintaining a robust set of navigational skills is viewed as essential for resilience in an increasingly complex and technology-reliant environment.