Grnd-58 Basic Navigation 4 and 5 Map Reading

Map Relief

aircrew should be able to visualize the rise and fall of the ground. You should be able to tell whether it is flat, hilly, or mountainous, or a combination of these characteristics.

Must be aware of seasonal and time of day effect on observing relief

Must be aware of radar shadow effect when using a radar to navigate

Water Features

They are conspicuous on both the map and the ground and make excellent checkpoints

Coast lines, lakes, large rivers, canals, and reservoirs

Seasonal effects such as freezing and flooding must be taken into account

Built Up Areas

Cities and towns are conspicuous on both the map and the ground and make excellent checkpoints

Form patterns with other cities, towns or ground features

Usually provide excess radar return and radar dihedral effect due to numerous flat perpendicular surfaces.

Line Features

Roads, Railways, and power lines are well defined.

Crossings and intersections are very useful in fixing position.

Line features are most useful when used in conjunction with other distinctive features.

Other Features

Mines, racetracks, forest-ranger towers, and other remote ground buildings in rural areas may be indicated on a map.

Often aerodromes are useful checkpoints, because of their distinctive shapes