What critical information does radar provide during nighttime navigation?

Radar plays a vital role in nighttime navigation by enhancing visibility and situational awareness in low-light conditions. Unlike visual navigation, which is severely limited after dark, radar can detect objects and obstacles in the surrounding waters regardless of lighting. This capability allows navigators to see the positions of other vessels, landmasses, buoys, and other potential hazards that are not visible to the naked eye at night.

In addition, radar can provide critical information on the movement of nearby ships, allowing for better decision-making to avoid collisions or other navigational hazards. It can also help in determining distances and directions to these objects, enabling thorough situational awareness. As such, radar is an indispensable tool for safe navigation after sunset or during poor visibility situations, significantly reducing the risks associated with nighttime navigation.