In search operations, what is the purpose of the back bearing for confirming position?

• A. To estimate distance to a landmark using triangulation.
• B. To determine wind direction.
• C. To verify the line of bearing from observer to the target.
• D. To provide the bearing from the target back to the observer, i.e., the back bearing.

Answer: (D)

Back bearing is a verification step in navigation. When you sight a landmark and measure the bearing from your position to it, you confirm that observation by also measuring the bearing from the landmark back toward you. This back bearing should be roughly 180 degrees opposite the forward bearing, providing a check that you and the landmark line up on the same sighting. This helps confirm your line of bearing to the target and, in turn, your position, reducing the chance of misidentifying features or drifting off course. It isn’t used for estimating distance via triangulation or for wind direction; its primary purpose is to verify the line of bearing from observer to target.