Magnetic Declination Adjuster
Adjust compass bearing for magnetic declination
About this calculator
The Magnetic Declination Adjuster calculator helps navigators and outdoor enthusiasts convert between magnetic compass bearings and true bearings by accounting for magnetic declination. Magnetic declination is the angular difference between magnetic north (where your compass points) and true north (geographic north pole). This tool ensures accurate navigation by providing precise bearing adjustments based on your location's specific magnetic declination value, which varies globally and changes over time.
How to use
Enter your compass bearing in degrees and input the magnetic declination value for your location (positive for easterly, negative for westerly declination). The calculator will automatically compute the true bearing by adding or subtracting the declination value, giving you the corrected bearing for accurate navigation and mapping purposes.
Frequently asked questions
What is magnetic declination?
Magnetic declination is the angular difference between magnetic north and true north, varying by geographic location and changing gradually over time due to Earth's magnetic field shifts.
How do I find my area's magnetic declination?
Use online declination calculators, topographic maps, or government geological survey websites that provide current declination values based on your specific coordinates and date.
Is declination east or west positive?
Easterly declination is typically positive, while westerly declination is negative. However, some systems use different conventions, so always check your source's notation method.