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ANSCHÜTZ: The future of navigation
From gyrocompass to autonomous ship
In the early 20th century, sailing in Kiel inspired two extraordinary individuals: Albert Einstein and Dr Hermann Anschütz-Kaempfe. Their shared passion for sailing and fascination with science led to a friendship that extended far beyond their hobby. This collaboration gave rise to one of the most significant innovations in maritime history: the gyrocompass, which sparked a technological revolution from Kiel and changed the maritime world forever.
The company Anschütz has been based in Kiel for more than 120 years and has established itself as the global market leader in professional navigation. What began with the invention of the gyrocompass has since evolved into much more: state-of-the-art navigation systems for ships that revolutionise safety and efficiency across the world's oceans. Our deep-rooted passion for navigation and innovation continues to drive us in making shipping safer and more sustainable.
The future of navigation is shaped in Kiel.
Shipping has evolved over the centuries, but today, we may be witnessing the biggest transformation since the invention of the gyrocompass. At Anschütz, we work with a clear vision for the future of maritime navigation, focusing on safety, efficiency and sustainability.
As a pioneer in the navigation industry, we set the standard for innovation and technological sustainability. Anschütz took an early lead in eliminating mercury from gyrocompasses and has been advancing a circular economy for decades by recycling used gyrospheres and reintroducing them with the highest quality standards. Our autopilots optimise rudder movements to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. Our bridge technology is based on standardised hardware, enabling flexible deployment and seamless upgrades via software. Additionally, we are increasingly focusing on virtually maintenance-free sensor technology that eliminates the need for regular component replacements, significantly reducing service calls.
With the vision of an autonomous, electric fjord ferry, the Kiel CAPTN initiative is taking another decisive step towards the future of autonomous shipping.
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Dr Hermann Anschütz-Kaempfe and Albert Einstein
Host City Supplier Partner
The Ocean Race Europe 2025
Autonomous navigation systems enhance safety at sea, for example by integrating more precise situational analysis and automatic collision avoidance. Crews will be relieved, reduced, or even replaced, minimising the risk of maritime accidents. Furthermore, automation and intelligent algorithms can continuously optimise routes and speeds, improving the efficiency and energy consumption of ships.
Are there other applications beyond ferries?
Yes – unmanned ships also provide a safe and effective solution for performing challenging tasks such as marine research, hydrography, infrastructure protection, mine clearance, and environmental protection.
The future of shipping has already begun.
Just as the gyrocompass revolutionised navigation, the development of autonomous systems will be a game-changer and set the course for the years ahead. With a clear vision and a strong commitment to innovation and safety, Anschütz is at the forefront of this transformation. We are dedicated to making the shipping of tomorrow safer, more efficient and more sustainable. As part of The Ocean Race, we will showcase our progress with an autonomous ship in Kiel in collaboration with the CAPTN initiative.
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