He was one of the most distinguished Arab navigators, and his works and discoveries in the fields of navigation, astronomy, and cartography were well known in Europe, India, and China during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Ibn Majid is regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of navigation and maritime geography. His work as a navigator contributed greatly to the development of European exploration of the world during the Age of Discovery, and his writings had a profound influence on European maritime science.
Here are some of his key achievements and contributions:
1. Al-Fawa'id fi Usul 'Ilm al-Bahr (The Book of Useful Information on the Principles and Rules of Navigation): He wrote this influential treatise on navigation, which outlined the principles and techniques of traditional Arab navigation. It provided detailed instructions on using celestial observations, instruments, and nautical terms.
2. Kitab al-Fawa'id fi Usul 'Ilm al-Bahriyya (Book of Useful Information on the Principles of Marine Science): This work covered various aspects of astronomy, including the positions and movements of the sun, moon, and stars. It also explained how to use these observations for navigation and determining latitude and longitude.
3. Navigational Innovations: Ibn Majid introduced several innovative navigational techniques, including the use of the kamal, a navigational instrument used to measure a celestial body's altitude above the horizon. He also developed methods for determining latitudes and longitudes without relying solely on astrolabes.
4. Influence on Vasco da Gama: Ibn Majid's works significantly influenced the Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who successfully reached India in 1498. Da Gama hired an Arab pilot, possibly Ibn Majid himself, to navigate the final stretch of his journey to India using the techniques and knowledge described in Ibn Majid's writings.
5. Exploration of the Indian Ocean: Ibn Majid's knowledge and expertise also contributed to the exploration of the Indian Ocean, where Arab sailors already had extensive trading networks and navigational expertise. His works provided valuable information for European explorers seeking new routes to Asia.
Overall, Ahmad Ibn Majid played a crucial role in advancing the science of navigation and maritime geography. His writings and discoveries facilitated exploration and trade across the globe, leaving a lasting impact on the history of maritime exploration and the Age of Discovery.