Navigation of the ships in the past was impossible without the suitably placed lighthouses on the shore. In modern times we have GPS. My question is whether the lighthouse still plays any role for the sailors or is it nowadays totally irrelevant.
While GPS has revolutionized navigation for ships, lighthouses still play a significant role in modern navigation. GPS technology is highly reliable, but it can sometimes malfunction due to technical problems or interference, and ships can also face problems with signal reception in certain locations such as harbors or near tall structures. In such situations, lighthouses serve as an important backup navigation aid for sailors.
Moreover, lighthouses can provide additional information for sailors beyond location and navigation. For example, lighthouses can provide information on weather conditions, local hazards, and other important information for sailors. In some cases, lighthouses are also used as landmarks to help identify a ship's position relative to shore.
In addition, many lighthouses have become cultural landmarks and tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. They are often considered historical and cultural icons that provide a glimpse into the maritime history of a region.
Overall, while GPS has largely replaced traditional navigation aids like lighthouses, they still play an important role in modern navigation and are appreciated for their historical and cultural significance.