Astern

Astern is a nautical term that refers to the direction towards the rear (stern) of a vessel. It is the opposite of ahead, which refers to the direction towards the front (bow) of the vessel. The term is commonly used in navigation and ship handling to describe the movement or position of a vessel relative to its own structure or to other objects.

Usage in Navigation

In navigation, the term "astern" is used to indicate that a vessel is moving backward. This can be achieved by reversing the thrust of the vessel's propulsion system, such as the propeller or jet propulsion. When a vessel moves astern, it is said to be "going astern" or "making sternway."

Ship Handling

When maneuvering a vessel, especially in confined spaces such as harbors or docks, the ability to move astern is crucial. This allows the vessel to back out of tight spots or to slow down and stop. The command "astern" is often given by the captain or pilot to the engine room to initiate reverse thrust.

Astern Propulsion

Astern propulsion is achieved by reversing the direction of the propeller or by using a separate set of astern propulsion mechanisms. Modern ships often have controllable pitch propellers that can change the angle of the blades to provide thrust in either direction. Some vessels are also equipped with bow thrusters and stern thrusters to aid in maneuvering.

Astern in Sailing

In sailing, the term "astern" can also refer to the position of another vessel or object relative to the stern of the sailing vessel. For example, if another boat is directly behind a sailing vessel, it is said to be "astern" of that vessel.

Related Terms

• Ahead
• Abeam
• Port (nautical)
• Starboard
• Stern
• Bow (ship)
• Propeller
• Jet propulsion
• Captain (nautical)
• Pilot (nautical)
• Engine room
• Controllable pitch propeller
• Bow thruster
• Stern thruster

See Also

• Nautical terms
• Ship handling
• Marine propulsion
• Navigation