ABSTRACTA fundamental method of calculating the time difference between meridian transit and when a body is at its highest altitude allows direct correction for the effects of vessel velocity and rate of declination change. A novel graphical procedure for determining the time of highest altitude results in a simple way to obtain a fix from observations near meridian passage. Calculators or computers are not needed in the method. An example demonstrates the practical merit of the approach. Derivation of the equations is presented, and observational error sensitivity is discussed.