Hypothetical Galactic Navigation System Question

AI Thread Summary
Developing a galactic navigation system requires determining position and direction without prior location information, utilizing known star locations. A proposed three-step approach includes using the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) and distant galaxies or quasars for orientation, followed by identifying closer objects like the galactic center and Andromeda for rough positioning. The final step involves consulting a star catalog to pinpoint precise location using nearby stars, star clusters, nebulas, and pulsars. This method emphasizes the importance of both distant and nearby celestial landmarks for effective navigation. Overall, a combination of various astronomical references is essential for accurate galactic navigation.
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Hypothetical question here. If someone were to develop a system for navigating the galaxy what would be the best way to determine a position and direction assuming no prior information about location (but access to things like star locations from our solar system's perspective). I'm assuming a star tracking type of system would work best but are there some extremely easy to spot landmarks around other than the center of the galaxy?
 
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I suggest a three-step approach: use the CMB, distant galaxies or quasars to find your orientation in space, then use objects closer to us (like the galactic center, Andromeda and various other objects - you know their approximate direction now) to find your rough position in the galaxy. Finally, look up the properties of stars nearby in some large catalogue and determine your precise position.
 
You can also use various star clusters, nebulas (nebulae?), and pulsars.
 

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