ASA 117: Basic Celestial Endorsement
Advanced Sailing Class
Master Celestial Navigation: Essential Backup Skills for Offshore Sailing
In ASA 117, you’ll learn the timeless art of celestial navigation using only a sextant, a watch, and a Nautical Almanac. This backup navigation method is an essential safety skill for offshore sailors, empowering you to determine latitude and longitude without relying on modern electronics.
Perfect for both beginners and experienced mariners, this course teaches critical techniques for finding your position anywhere on the globe—ensuring you're prepared for even the most remote voyages.
$419
Class is 5-10 hours of online study presented by STARPATH.
Sailing Skills You’ll Learn
Using a Mark 3 plastic sextant for celestial sightings
Reading and interpreting the Nautical Almanac
Finding latitude and longitude using the sun, moon, and stars
Understanding the role of celestial navigation as a backup to GPS
Applying real-world offshore scenarios to navigation practice
What’s Included
Student support forum access
ASA Certification and logbook seal
One-year access to complete the course with extension options available
5–10 hours of online study, self-paced
STARPATH online course platform
Textbooks: GPS Backup with a Mark 3 Sextant and How to Use Plastic Sextants
ASA 117 registration and certification fees
Prerequisites
You must have successfully completed:
If you completed ASA 105 outside of PSSI, contact our office with your ASA number to confirm eligibility. This course is available on both Mac and Windows computers.
Club Members, please contact the office to register for classes to obtain your club level discount.