In the paper the priority of technical means and methods of navigation at contemporary seagoing ship was discussed. The role of magnetically compass and gyrocompass at the condition of contemporary ship was described. Effectiveness of gyrocompass and magnetically compass from point of navigation and economy was analyzed. The result of analysis is reflected at the recommendation for navigators and managers of ship’s company

The method for automatic compensation of deviation on any heading is proposed for a Fluxgate compass. The mathematic description of the method is given along with a block diagram of the method implementation. Following an analysis of the accuracy, recommendations for achieving proper accuracy are presente

A new method for updating the deviation table of a magnetic compass on any heading is proposed. The ma-thematical description of the method is presented. The accuracy of the restoration of factors B and C is inves-tigated. The requirement of acuracy for instrumental observation is formulate

This article has looked into the role of the magnetic compass in providing navigational safety for ships. The existing requirements of the magnetic compass for safe navigation in case the gyro compass breaks-down and in case of terrorists abusing GPS signals do not solve the problems that occur in everyday life. Therefore, a new rational requirement has been proposed for the accuracy and frequency of deviation adjustment work assuring the safety and cost effectiveness of navigation. Vessel owners and masters have responsibilities to ensure that magnetic compasses are maintained in good working order, are adjusted and accompanied by a table or curve of residual deviations. This article has outlined the most urgent problems for the adjustment of magnetic compasses that apply to all ships irrespective of size and navigation area. The proposed method has been verified experimentally.