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Which Way Is Up?

In addition to ForeFlight, Appareo's Stratus 3 is also compatible with the FltPlan Go, FlyQ, WingX and iFly GPS apps. Appareo Systems
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Scientific research from the 1980s and 90s indicates that a track-up (egocentric) moving map orientation is superior for "local guidance" tasks like following a flight path, as it reduces mental rotation and cognitive load.
  • Conversely, a north-up (world-referenced) orientation proves more effective for "global awareness" tasks, such as understanding one's position relative to fixed geographical features, airports, or navaids.
  • Despite the specific advantages of each orientation for different tasks, if a single display must serve all functions, track-up is generally advocated as the preferred choice, though the availability of fixed map options is also recommended.
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Expect vigorous debate on how best to orient your moving map. Here, I’ll address that debate about the best orientation. But rather than reiterating all the opinions, I’ll focus on what the published scientific research completed in the 1980s and 1990s had to say on that specific question.

Life Before Moving Maps

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