The arc of visibility for sidelights is from right ahead to what angle?

The correct answer indicates that the arc of visibility for sidelights extends from right ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam. This alignment is significant in maritime navigation rules, as it defines the area within which sidelights are visible to other vessels.

Sidelights serve specific purposes: they help to indicate the direction a vessel is heading and its relative position in relation to other vessels. According to the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea (COLREGs), sidelights must have a horizontal visibility arc of 112.5°, which is split equally to allow visibility from right ahead to 22.5° abaft the beam on each side of the vessel.

This understanding is crucial for ensuring safe navigation and maintaining situational awareness at night or in poor visibility conditions. Familiarity with the visibility arcs is essential for recognizing other vessel's lights and determining their orientation and relative position to avoid collisions.