What is the definition of gyrocompassing?
The use of a (non-magnetic) gyroscopic compass to determine heading with respect to North.
The Anschütz gyrocompass enabled changes in the direction (heading) of the vessel to be observed without using a magnetic compass. Gyrocompassing, as it became known as, can be attained in several ways; for example, surrounding the gimbal with a degree graduated ring enables rotation of the gimbal to point to the new direction (much like a magnetic compass needle). Another means is to trap the gimbal and measure the torque generated by the gyroscope when its direction changes, in order to calculate the rotational movement. Read more “The history of gyroscopes – from humble beginnings to hyper technology“.