Definition 1 of 2
Definition
A method of determining an unknown position by taking bearings to two or more known reference points and plotting the lines from those points until they intersect. The point where the bearing lines cross marks the unknown location.
Plain English
A way of finding where you are by drawing lines from two or more known places and seeing where those lines cross. Where they meet is your position.
Context Anchor
Used in pilotage, chart navigation, and radio navigation when a pilot fixes position from known ground features or navigation signals.
Derivation
From the Latin 'triangulum' meaning 'triangle.' The name comes from the fact that two bearing lines and the line between the two known reference points form a triangle, with the unknown position at one corner.
Why Pilots Care
Provides a reliable way to confirm position when GPS is unavailable or unreliable.
Analogy
It is like finding your location on a map by sighting two landmarks. If one line points from a tower and another from a bridge, your location is where those two lines cross.
Intuition Check
Triangulation does not mean guessing your position from one landmark. It means using two or more known references so the position can be fixed where the lines meet.
Example Sentence 1
The pilot used triangulation from two VOR stations to confirm the aircraft's position over an unfamiliar area.
Example Sentence 2
When the GPS failed, triangulation from nearby landmarks quickly restored situational awareness.