Ancient navigation refers to the methods used by early civilizations to travel across seas and land. Mariners relied on natural elements like the stars, sun, and wind patterns to guide their journeys. Tools such as the astrolabe and sextant were developed to help determine latitude and longitude, allowing sailors to chart their courses more accurately. Different cultures had unique navigation techniques. The Polynesians used their knowledge of ocean swells and bird behavior to find islands in the vast Pacific. Meanwhile, the Vikings relied on landmarks and the position of the sun to navigate their longships across the North Atlantic.