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> As Herbert Prinz quite rightfully pointed out, there are exceptions
> where one indeed could introduce systematic error in excess of the
> random error that is removed, so one has to be cautious.

As I continue to look at 4 minutes spreads and averages, I have shifted my
focus to the Hc 10d-20d range.  Here, even with a 20d-30d difference between
latitude and declination I am getting a big 4-minute spread, in the range of
45'-55', indicating  approx. .6'-.7' averaging error.  Herbert was indeed
kinder to me with his numbers than he could have been.

I won't make a value judgment as to whether that is too much shift for a
particular navigator and/or under what circumstances.

My question, is there a rule of thumb that might indicate when averages are
acceptable and when not.  For example, for error of .4' or less (due
totally to systematic errors from averaging) difference between latitude and
declination, plus altitude should exceed 60d (or any other number that the
gurus decide is reasonable?

Thank you

Bill

   

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