a. Electro-Magn. [f. Gr. ἄστατ-ος unstable (f. ἀ priv. + στα- to stand) + -IC.] Having no tendency to remain in a fixed position. Astatic needle: one so situated or arranged as to be unaffected by the earth’s magnetism.
1832. U. K. S., Nat. Phil., II. Electro-Magnet., xi. § 193. The moveable conductor … may be rendered astatic or independent of terrestrial influence.
1870. R. Ferguson, Electr., 252. An upright galvanometer with the astatic needles loaded.
