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| Maps are based on true, or geographic, north, i.e. the north pole at 90ºN. However, magnetic compasses point to Magnetic North, a mineral deposit in the High Canadian Arctic. In lower latitudes, the angular difference between True North and Magnetic North is compensated for by a value known as Magnetic Variation. But to further complicate matters, Magnetic North is not a fixed spot but is constantly on the move and magnetic variation must be recomputed on a regular basis. In the past 100 years, Magnetic North has wandered approximately 500 miles to the north to its present location near Ellef Ringes Island in the Canadian Arctic. |
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