This volume of the American Practical Navigator, commonly known as Bowditch, serves as a comprehensive guide to celestial navigation, building upon foundational principles to address more advanced techniques and applications. Originally compiled by Nathaniel Bowditch, this 1981 edition, Volume 2, continues the legacy of providing essential knowledge for mariners. It details the methods and calculations required for determining a vessel's position at sea using celestial bodies, offering practical solutions for navigation challenges.

This edition of Bowditch is recognized as a foundational text for anyone studying celestial navigation, offering a detailed and practical approach to the subject. Its comprehensive coverage of methods and calculations makes it an invaluable resource for both students and experienced mariners. The inclusion of tables and formulas further enhances its utility as a reference work for maritime professionals.