Which function was critically enabled by improved astronomical data for 16th century transatlantic voyages?

💡 Explanation

With access to better observational astronomical data, navigational charts could be produced using more accurate stellar positions because celestial navigation involves sighting stars for determining geographic coordinates. Therefore more consistent navigation charts became available, rather than ocean current or magnetic declination improvements, which rely on oceanography and magnetism.

• Which optical effect, explained by Ibn al-Haytham, causes a mirage on hot desert surfaces?
• Which navigational consequence occurred when 18th-century ships experienced a significant magnetic deviation?
• Which risk increased after medieval tanneries dumped waste into Roman aqueduct channels repurposed for water supply?
• Which effect increased navigational accuracy during oceanic voyages when marine chronometers replaced sandglasses?
• Which structural enhancement during 18th-century ship construction primarily reduced the risk of hogging under wave stress?
• Which risk increases when a wooden sailing ship experiences prolonged exposure to marine borers in warm waters?