Date: Tue, 08 Apr 2008 17:10:21 -0700 From: Jeff Shultz <jeffshultz@wvi.com>

Deepak Jain wrote:

...

There is no reason to assume these are civilian satellites. Any one of a number of affected or interested countries could have provided the imagery (or ship information) to Reliance. Its not saying *who* analyzed the images. ;)

Then again, how are ship's captains supposed to know *where* they are allowed to drop anchor? Is there a "Call before you drop" anchor service similar to "call before you dig?"

Anchorages are normally VERY clearly marked on maritime navigation charts.

Speaking as a former "conning officer" (The person giving orders to the helmsman and engines), anchorage charts (NOT maps, CHARTS) are quite clearly marked showing things on the bottom of the ocean, where not to drop anchor, where it is OK to drop anchor, what the hazards are, where they are, how accurately the hazard is charted, et al... In addition, if the anchorage is w/in "coastal waters", usually a pilot is required for any ship movement. And a pilot is required to know EVERYthing about the ocean and environs to safely conn a ship to port. Again, the captain is not required to slavishly follow the pilot's recommendations, but he'd better have a darn good reason for NOT following them - especially, as in this case, if something untoward happens. Regards, Gregory Hicks --------------------------------------------------------------------- Gregory Hicks | Principal Systems Engineer Cadence Design Systems | Direct: 408.576.3609 555 River Oaks Pkwy M/S 9B1 San Jose, CA 95134 I am perfectly capable of learning from my mistakes. I will surely learn a great deal today. "A democracy is a sheep and two wolves deciding on what to have for lunch. Freedom is a well armed sheep contesting the results of the decision." "The best we can hope for concerning the people at large is that they be properly armed." --Alexander Hamilton