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← HistoryWhich mechanism was crucial in enabling accurate celestial navigation using a Kamal during the medieval Islamic period?
A)Measuring angular distance from Polaris✓
B)Calculating sidereal time at zenith
C)Predicting lunar eclipse magnitudes
D)Determining planetary orbital inclinations
💡 Explanation
The Kamal relies on measuring the angular distance between the horizon and Polaris (or other known stars) using a string held to a marked wooden rectangle, because this provides a direct indication of latitude. Therefore, measuring the angle to Polaris is crucial, rather than alternatives that involve time, eclipses, or planetary orbits differently.
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