Which limitation affected the accuracy of pre-17th-century astrolabes when determining local time at sea?

💡 Explanation

When measuring local time using astrolabes at sea, the equation of time, which accounts for variations in the Sun's apparent motion, was difficult to apply because of complicated calculations, limiting timing accuracy. Therefore, an inability to account for the equation of time resulted, rather than inaccurate sphere conversion, reliance on magnetic fields or failing to correct refraction, which are separate concerns.

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