This volume of the American Practical Navigator, commonly known as Bowditch, addresses the principles and practices of celestial navigation. Authored by Nathaniel Bowditch, this 1981 edition, Volume 2, serves as a comprehensive resource for understanding and applying celestial navigation techniques. It builds upon foundational navigational knowledge, focusing on the specific calculations and methods required to determine a vessel's position using astronomical observations. The text is designed for those engaged in the study and practice of maritime navigation, providing the detailed information necessary for accurate positional fixes at sea.

This volume is recognized as a critical component of the American Practical Navigator, a foundational text in maritime education. Its detailed approach to celestial navigation makes it a valuable reference for students and experienced navigators alike. The 1981 edition continues the legacy of Bowditch as a reliable source for the complex calculations required for safe sea passage. The inclusion of Volume 2 specifically targets the intricacies of astronomical observation and calculation, underscoring its role as a specialized, authoritative guide.