Orienteringslinje

Orienteringslinje, or orientation line, is a line used to establish or communicate orientation with respect to a reference direction, commonly geographic north. It may be drawn on a map, measured in the field, or described in navigation instructions. The concept is used to align directions and ensure that subsequent bearings correspond to real-world directions.

In cartography and surveying, the orienteringslinje serves as the reference against which other directions are calibrated. The map or instrument is rotated so that the orienteringslinje aligns with the chosen reference, such as true north or magnetic north. When true north is used, no declination correction is required; when magnetic north is used, a declination adjustment is needed to obtain accurate bearings.

In the sport of orienteering, the term can refer to the aiming line from a current position to the next control point. Practitioners use a bearing line to navigate through terrain, often adjusting the line with a compass to maintain the intended course and to interpret distances and routes on the map.

Terminology and emphasis may vary by field. The orienteringslinje may be described as a north line, azimuth line, bearing line, or simple orientation reference, but the core idea remains a directional reference that helps establish or maintain correct orientation in navigation, mapping, and fieldwork. See also bearing, azimuth, north, compass, and map orientation.