orienteringspunkter

Orienteeringspunkter, in the sport of orienteering, are fixed points in the terrain used as checkpoints. Each point corresponds to a control on the course map and is typically marked by a brightly colored flag (control flag) or similar marker that is visible from a distance. The location is chosen by the course planner to test navigation and decision-making, placing the control at a defined terrain feature described in the control description.

Competitors must visit all orienteringspunkter in the specified order, identify the described feature, and confirm their visit by punching a control card or using electronic punching (dibber/SI). The map shows each control with a number, and the control description explains the exact feature and any nearby details. The markers are usually placed at natural features such as knolls, boulders, pits, or at man-made objects, and are intended to be detectable under competition conditions.

Placement is guided by safety, environmental impact, and fairness considerations. Markers are kept in good condition and replaced if damaged or lost. Obstacles and terrain are chosen to ensure challenge while maintaining accessibility.

Outside formal competitions, orienteringspunkter are used in training courses, educational programs, and recreational orienteering to teach map reading, route choice, and terrain interpretation. With technological developments, electronic punching (e-punch) and online result logging have become common, enhancing verification and data collection.