There are three main methods of using the periscope to shoot torpedoes:
The check bearing method, where you take a series of quick observations to set up and confirm TDC inputs. Each periscope exposure is as short as possible . The periscope bearings are checked against the TDC to predict a good solution. We can do this and most do in Silent Hunter 4.
The continuous bearing method, where the periscope operator keeps the scope up and the assistant periscope operator calls out the bearings continuously to be entered into the TDC to keep it continuously updated during the firing of torpedoes. We can't really do this one. I suppose we could stab the send bearing/range button every several seconds, but that would reset the range to the last one we measured with the stadimeter.
Finally, the constant bearing method. Here the TDC is set for a predetermined solution. The periscope is aimed at the bearing determined by the solution and held on that constant bearing. As juicy parts of the target cross the wire you send fish their direction. All torpedoes follow the same path to the target in a longitudinal spread. The Dick O'Kane technique is a constant bearing technique, as is the John P Cromwell.
So with the constant bearing method the only thing constant is the bearing on which you hold the periscope.
It is true that from the point of view of the torpedo the target maintains a constant bearing until collision, but that is a factor shared by all three shooting methods and is irrelevent to the discussion.
Comprendé?
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