What is "compass error" in navigation?

Compass error refers to the difference between magnetic north and true north. This distinction is essential for navigators because true north is fixed at the North Pole, while magnetic north is the direction a magnetic compass points, which can vary depending on the geographic location and local magnetic influences.

Understanding compass error is crucial for accurate navigation, especially when plotting courses and understanding bearings. If navigators do not account for this difference, they could end up significantly off course. This error arises from the Earth's magnetic field, which can cause compasses to point away from true north, leading to navigation challenges if not properly adjusted for.