What two pieces of information does ECDIS automatically calculate for situational awareness?

ECDIS, or Electronic Chart Display and Information System, is an advanced navigational tool that enhances a navigator's situational awareness by providing critical data in real-time. One of its key functionalities includes automatic calculations relevant to a vessel's navigation. Cross-Track Error is an important metric that indicates how much the vessel has deviated from its intended course, allowing the navigator to make necessary corrections to stay on track. Additionally, the Distance and Time to Turn calculation provides essential information about when and where to make turns, ensuring safe and efficient navigation around obstacles or towards waypoints.

These calculated metrics are significant for maintaining safe navigation and avoiding potential hazards, thereby contributing to overall situational awareness. This combination of data enables navigators to have a clearer understanding of their position in relation to their planned route, which is crucial for effective decision-making at sea.