gyrokompassi

Gyrokompassi is a type of compass that uses a gyroscope to determine direction. Unlike magnetic compasses, which rely on the Earth's magnetic field, gyrokompassi are not affected by magnetic interference. This makes them particularly useful in environments where magnetic compasses would be unreliable, such as on ships made of steel or in areas with strong magnetic anomalies.

The core of a gyrokompassi is a rapidly spinning rotor, typically mounted in gimbals to allow it to maintain its orientation in space. Due to the principles of physics, specifically the conservation of angular momentum and the Earth's rotation, the gyroscope will align itself with the Earth's axis of rotation. This alignment provides a reference direction, which is then translated into a compass heading.

Gyrokompassi typically require a power source to keep the rotor spinning. They are known for their accuracy and stability, especially over long periods and in rough conditions. However, they are also more complex and expensive than magnetic compasses and require periodic maintenance. They are widely used in maritime navigation, aviation, and sometimes in specialized land-based applications where high accuracy is paramount.