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Southern Oregon University

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING INSTITUTE


OLLI at SOU

Sailing by the Stars: Celestial Navigation    NEW!

This course will offer a basic understanding of celestial navigation and sailing. This method allowed early exploration of the world’s oceans and is still useful today if modern technology fails. The stars, planets, sun and moon can be used to navigate. Through lecture and discussion, an understanding will be gained of how the night sky changes during the year and how observing the night sky from the Northern and Southern hemispheres differs dramatically. Discussions will include sea stories from the instructor’s sailing in both hemispheres. The class will also be invited to share ocean experiences, and students will have a hands-on opportunity to examine a sextant. No prior knowledge is required, just a curiosity about sailing and using the natural elements as guides. 
 
NOTE: No books are required; however, “The Stars” by H.A. Rey is a useful and enjoyable manual with illustrations and information on the constellations, planets and seasonal changes of the night sky. 

  • Sailing by the Stars: Celestial Navigation – In-Person
  • Item Number: W26NAT325A
    Dates: 1/8/2026 - 2/12/2026
    Times: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
    Days: Th
    Sessions: 6
    Maximum Enrollment:  28
    Seats Available:  1
    Building: Campbell Center
    Room: Room C
    Instructor: Richard LeVee
    This course will offer a basic understanding of celestial navigation and sailing. This method allowed early exploration of the world’s oceans and is still useful today if modern technology fails. The stars, planets, sun and moon can be used to navigate. Through lecture and discussion, an understanding will be gained of how the night sky changes during the year and how observing the night sky from the Northern and Southern hemispheres differs dramatically. Discussions will include sea stories from the instructor’s sailing in both hemispheres. The class will also be invited to share ocean experiences, and students will have a hands-on opportunity to examine a sextant. No prior knowledge is required, just a curiosity about sailing and using the natural elements as guides. 
     
    NOTE: No books are required; however, “The Stars” by H.A. Rey is a useful and enjoyable manual with illustrations and information on the constellations, planets and seasonal changes of the night sky. 
 

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