“Astern” in Marine Glossary

“Astern” is a nautical term that describes the direction behind or towards the rear of a vessel. When a ship is moving astern, it is moving in reverse or backward.

In terms of ship navigation, “astern” refers to the opposite direction of forward propulsion. It is often used when describing the movement or positioning of a vessel relative to other ships or objects. For example, if a ship needs to slow down or stop, it may put its engines in reverse, causing the ship to move astern.

Additionally, “astern” is also used to indicate the position of an object or vessel in relation to another. If a ship is positioned astern of another ship, it is located behind it or in its wake.

In summary, “astern” is a maritime term that denotes movement or positioning in the backward direction or behind another object or vessel.