Heading sensor

A solid-state (usually fluxgate or MEMS) compass providing a fast-updating digital heading to the autopilot, radar, and chartplotter.

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Related H-terms

Halyard

A line used to hoist, hold up, or lower a sail.

Head to wind

The moment when the bow is pointing directly into the wind — for instance, the centre of a…

Hard over

Turning the helm, tiller, or wheel as far as it will go in one direction.

Hank

A piston or snap hook used to attach the luff of a foresail at intervals along the foresta…

Hatch

A large, usually closable opening in the deck or coachroof for access, ventilation, or lig…

Head

The upper corner of a sail; also, the marine toilet.

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