Researchers Decode 200-Year-Old Red Sea Navigational Chart, Revealing Indigenous Seafaring Secrets
Researchers from the University of Exeter have successfully decoded a 200-year-old navigational chart from the Red Sea, shedding light on an indigenous system of navigation that predates modern methods. The chart, which dates back to the late 18th or early 19th century, includes images of ships and religious buildings and depicts over 180 islands, reefs, landmarks, and flags. The study identified 29 rhumb lines on the chart, which served to establish coastline trends, indicate travel directions across open water, and mark safe passage into and out of ports. The researchers have also identified the names of places and astronomical data inscribed on the chart, establishing latitude readings and sailing directions that demonstrate a sophisticated navigational tradition. 
