Kompasafstemming

Kompasafstemming, also known as compass alignment or compass calibration, refers to the process of ensuring that a compass accurately reflects the Earth's magnetic field. This is essential for navigation, particularly in activities such as hiking, sailing, and aviation, where directional accuracy is critical. The Earth's magnetic field is not perfectly aligned with its rotational axis, meaning true north (the geographic North Pole) differs from magnetic north (where a compass points). This discrepancy, known as magnetic declination, varies depending on location and changes over time due to shifts in the Earth's magnetic field.

The process of kompasafstemming involves adjusting the compass to account for local magnetic declination or correcting any mechanical misalignments. In basic compasses, this often means rotating the bezel—the rotating ring around the compass housing—to align the orienting arrow or index mark with the magnetic needle. For more advanced navigational tools, such as those used in aviation or marine settings, calibration may require precise adjustments to internal components or electronic corrections.

In some contexts, particularly in educational settings, kompasafstemming is taught as part of basic navigation skills. Practitioners are instructed to determine their local declination using maps or online resources and apply it to their compass readings. This ensures that their navigation remains accurate despite the difference between true and magnetic north. Over time, as declination shifts, recalibration may be necessary to maintain precision.

While modern GPS technology has reduced reliance on traditional compasses, understanding kompasafstemming remains valuable for situations where electronic navigation fails or is unavailable. It also serves as a fundamental skill in understanding how magnetic fields influence directional tools and how human-made instruments interact with natural phenomena.