From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Symbols and abbreviations for light characteristics

A light characteristic is a graphic and text description of a navigational light sequence or colour displayed on a nautical chart or in a Light List with the chart symbol for a lighthouse, lightvessel or sea mark with a light on it. The graphic indicates how the real light beacon may be identified when looking at its actual light output type or sequence.

An example of a light characteristic is Gp Oc(3) 10s 15m 10M. This indicates that the light is a Group occulting light in which a group of 3 eclipses repeat every 10 seconds; the light is 15 metres above the chart datum for heights (usually based on high water) and is visible for 10 nautical miles (19 km).

The chart to the right describes some of the different light characteristics.

An Interrupted quick light is a quick flashing light in which the rapid alternations are interrupted at regular intervals by eclipses of long duration.

See also

Nautical portal

• Lighthouse
• Pilotage
• Isophase light
• Flashing light
• Occulting light

External links

• US ATON light characteristic terms illustrated
• See Glossary to Aids of Navigation Terms in any of the USCG Light Lists
• Glossary of Lighthouse Terms