Reply To: Practice sights for a beginner.

[pmaclearn@verizon.net]

Bill:
What you say is correct, but it is not clear which almanac year “True” has. Why search for an old almanac when you can get a new one to learn from? ‘True’ is getting results that are marginal for a person standing onshore, on solid ground, and from a known position, in good weather. Is the issue with his sight taking? Is the issue with the corrections he applies? Is the issue with the tables themselves? Are there multiple errors such that a stack-up of errors make his sights look better or worse than he is actually getting? I submit that as a self-learner, and self-evaluator, this may be difficult for ‘True’ to decipher. The point is to reduce the uncertainties in the process/procedures, and the learning curve, as much as possible and to avoid undue confusion and discouragement.
When first learning I would advocate for acquiring the best tools that you can afford so that you take as many of the unknowns out of the process as possible. Also, while taking sights of the sun is a good starting point, the ability to move on to the moon, planets and stars when, and as you are able, should be as a straight forward and easy step. This can be done most easily with the current almanac (for a little over $25).
I’m trying to help ‘True’ out here. Obviously he, or anyone else can do what ever he/they please(s).