Who really invented the compass, and how did it change navigation?

The answer

The magnetic compass was invented in China during the Han Dynasty (around the 2nd century BCE), initially used for feng shui and divination rather than navigation. It wasn't adapted for maritime use until the Song Dynasty around the 11th century CE. The compass reached Europe by the 12th century and, combined with improved cartography, enabled the Age of Exploration - allowing sailors to cross open oceans without relying on visible coastlines or stars.