range light

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

A range light is a navigational aid consisting of two or more lights positioned on shore. These lights are aligned to guide ships, typically through channels, by ensuring the vessel remains in line with them.1

Another application of range lights involves two white lights displayed vertically on a steamer. When one light is positioned at least fifteen feet higher than the other and horizontally distant, they indicate the ship's course. This system helps other vessels judge the ship's direction and speed, especially at night. Range lights are a type of fixed directional light used in ports and harbors to provide accurate guidance.123

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Identification
…giving directional instruction is by range lights, which are two fixed lights of different elevation located about half a nautical mile apart. The navigator steers the vessel to keep the two lights aligned one above the other.
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…giving directional instruction is by range lights, which are two fixed lights of different elevation located about half a nautical mile apart. The navigator steers the vessel to keep the two lights aligned one above the other.
Read More