Ships:
* Caravel: Hudson primarily used a type of ship called a caravel, which was a small, fast, and maneuverable vessel with a combination of square and lateen sails. These ships were popular for exploration and trade in the 15th and 16th centuries.
* Half-Deck: Some sources suggest he also used a half-deck ship, which was a smaller variation of a caravel, often used for fishing.
Navigation:
* Compass: The compass was essential for determining direction, although it wasn't as accurate as modern compasses.
* Astrolabe: This instrument, which used the stars to determine latitude, was another key tool for navigation.
* Sextant: A less precise version of a sextant might have been used to measure the angle of the sun or stars above the horizon, which could then be used to calculate latitude.
* Lead Line: This was a weighted rope used to measure the depth of the water.
* Log Line: This was used to measure the ship's speed by throwing a knotted rope into the water and counting the number of knots that passed by in a specific time.
* Maps: Hudson would have relied on existing maps, which were often inaccurate and incomplete.
Other Tools:
* Sail: Sails were the primary source of power for ships, relying on the wind to propel them.
* Rudder: The rudder was used to steer the ship.
* Anchor: The anchor was used to hold the ship in place.
* Canons: Hudson likely carried cannons for defense, but also for use in trading.
Limitations:
* Limited Navigation: The tools of the time were not as accurate as modern navigation systems, so Hudson's exploration was limited. He likely had to rely on landmarks and celestial navigation.
* Weather Dependency: Sails meant that Hudson's explorations were heavily dependent on the weather.
* Limited Communication: Long-distance communication was very limited. It was difficult to receive updates or send reports back to Europe.
In summary: While Henry Hudson's explorations might seem primitive compared to modern space exploration, the technology he used was groundbreaking for its time and allowed him to venture far beyond the known world.