Compass in Magnetic Environment

Hello,

I had a question with regards to the compass calibration of the Vector velocimeter on a ship in the ocean during a deployment. How would the metal on the ship affect the calibration of the compass? That is, would the magnetic metals on the ship cause the compass to not calibrate correctly, such that when the Vector is deployed in the ocean it would not read the correct compass direction? If this is the case, what would be the optimal way to calibrate the compass? On the shore before going onto the ship? Or would it not actually matter that much?

Furthermore, would the rocking of the ship cause any problems with the compass calibration?

Thanks for any info,

Jeff

Sorry, this one slipped.  Yes, a steel ship is generally very magnetic and the best way to run the calibration is on shore.  Alternatively you can try to hang the instrument 2-3 m up in he air. The compass should be level (or as level as possible) when you run the calibration.

Best regards, Atle Lohrmann