What term is synonymous with Local Noon in navigation?

The term synonymous with Local Noon in navigation is Meridian Passage. Local Noon refers to the time when the sun is at its highest point in the sky for a specific location, which occurs when the sun crosses the local meridian. This moment is significant in navigation as it helps to determine the longitude of a location based on the sun's position relative to time.

Meridian Passage indicates that the sun has reached the meridian—the imaginary line that runs from the North Pole to the South Pole and passes directly overhead at noon. The understanding of this concept is crucial for navigators, as it provides an accurate reference point for determining time and position at sea. This ability to identify Local Noon assists in calibrating navigational instruments and enhances the precision of navigating across open waters.

The other terms presented do not accurately capture the concept of Local Noon. For example, Solar Zenith refers to the highest point of the sun, but it is more generic and not used in the specific context of navigation. Celestial Maximum is not a standard navigation term, and Equatorial Alignment does not pertain directly to the sun's position at Local Noon.