Why is it important for the platform of an INS to remain aligned with true north?

The alignment of the platform of an Inertial Navigation System (INS) with true north is critical because it directly impacts the accuracy of the readings and navigation capabilities of the system. An INS relies on inertial sensors—such as accelerometers and gyroscopes—to track its position over time based on its initial alignment. If the platform is misaligned with true north, the sensor data can become skewed, leading to discrepancies in position estimation, velocity, and orientation.

Accurate navigation is essential for a variety of applications including aviation, maritime, and military operations, where even minor errors can lead to significant consequences. By maintaining alignment with true north, the INS can provide precise and reliable information, which ensures that navigational commands are executed correctly and that the system can effectively integrate data from other navigational aids.