What is the estimating of a ship's position between known navigational points called?

The process of estimating a ship's position between known navigational points is known as dead reckoning. This technique involves using a previously determined position and accounting for the course, speed, and time traveled to estimate the current position. It is crucial for maintaining a ship's course when visual references are absent, allowing navigators to keep track of their location based on their last known position and anticipated movement.

In contrast, navigation encompasses a broader range of techniques used to determine a vessel's position and course, making it less specific than dead reckoning. Piloting refers to navigating in proximity to land and involves using physical landmarks and aids to navigation, which is distinct from the concept of estimating position solely based on previous data. Tactical does not pertain to navigational position and relates more to strategic decision-making in naval operations. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the specific method used for positional estimation at sea.