Ace the Officer Aptitude Rating (OAR) 2026 – Unleash Your Inner Officer!

The primary function of a sextant in navigation is to measure angles for celestial navigation. It is an instrument that allows navigators to determine their position by measuring the angle between a celestial body (like the sun or a star) and the horizon. This angular measurement is crucial for calculating latitude and longitude, which are essential for determining one's location at sea. By using a sextant, navigators can accurately pinpoint their position over vast distances of open water, which is essential for safe and effective maritime travel. The other options, while related to navigation, do not accurately describe the specific role of a sextant: measuring time, determining speed, and calculating distance rely on different instruments and methods.