Sun Compass?

[Naphtali]

I just completed Long Range Desert Group by W.B. Kennedy Shaw. Shaw identifies a "sun compass" that the unit used to navigate in the North African desert. Having not heard the phrase before, I watched for a description. For my need, the brief description was not definitive, and there were no photgraphs. Shaw seemed to be describing a hand-held sun dial.

Anyone who can: please describe sun compasses. If photographs are available, . . . please.

 

[Philip A.]

Here are a couple of pictures:

A sun compass mounted on the bonnet of a military vehicle

A US Army sun compass in its box


And a link to a brief description of the one you're interested in:

http://olive-drab.com/gallery/description_0169.php

To use a sun compass, you need the accurate time of the day, and your position. It is more accurate and reliable than a magnetic compass, and is thus preferred for land surveys.

 

[Naphtali]

Here are a couple of pictures:

A sun compass mounted on the bonnet of a military vehicle

A US Army sun compass in its box


And a link to a brief description of the one you're interested in:

http://olive-drab.com/gallery/description_0169.php

To use a sun compass, you need the accurate time of the day, and your position. It is more accurate and reliable than a magnetic compass, and is thus preferred for land surveys.

Exactly what I needed and wanted. Many thanks.