transverse orientation

{{Short description|Keeping a fixed angle on a distant source of light for orientation}}

{{one source|date=March 2011}}

Transverse orientation, keeping a fixed angle on a distant source of light for orientation, is a proprioceptive response displayed by some insects such as moths.{{cite web|url=http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2008/10/16/2393058.htm|title=Myth burns like moth to a flame|author=Karl Kruszelnicki|date=16 October 2008|publisher=ABC Online|accessdate=17 March 2011}}{{cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=12903572 |title=Why are Moths Attracted to Flame?|author=Debbie Elliott - host|date=18 August 2007|publisher=NPR|accessdate=25 March 2012}}

By maintaining a constant angular relationship to a bright celestial light, such as the moon, they can fly in a straight line. Celestial objects are so far away that, even after travelling great distances, the change in angle between the moth and the light source is negligible; further, the moon will always be in the upper part of the visual field, or on the horizon. When a moth encounters a much closer artificial light and uses it for navigation, the angle changes noticeably after only a short distance, in addition to being often below the horizon. The moth instinctively attempts to correct by turning toward the light, resulting in a spiral flight path that gets closer and closer to the light source.{{cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=12903572 |title=Why are Moths Attracted to Flame?|author=Debbie Elliott - host|date=18 August 2007|publisher=NPR|accessdate=25 March 2012}}