1. Describe the technological advances that paved the path for European exploration trips
The Printing Press allowed greater access to books & new information. For ex, Marco Polo’s Travels described faraway places & made them curious about the outside world.
Better maps as they became more accurate due to reports from explorers as well as information from Arab and Chinese scholars.
New navigational instruments such as the astrolabe & quadrant allowed sailors to find their latitude at sea by measuring the position of the stars. The magnetic compass allowed sailors to accurately determine their direction.
Improved ship design such as the stern rudder and triangular sails allowed ships to sail against the wind. The Portuguese caravel could sail faster and carry more cargo than earlier ships.

2. Describe the technological advances that paved the path for European exploration trips
The Printing Press
Better maps
New navigational instruments
Improved ship design