Oh, what a wonderful topic! I'd venture to say all the above!
Colonial Williamsburg put out content in regards to the understanding of the celestial heavens during the 18th century. Just the little bit of graphics they shared was so beyond fascinating of detailed artwork documenting planets and people fascinated with the stars. From navigational tools all around the globe to the Prague Clock Tower, surely some educated sailors were like many of their peers and Aristocrats who cultivated a hobby in Astronomy and all things related to the celestial heavens. It certainly would be interesting to know how much other cultures influenced some sailors when it comes to beliefs and superstitions of celestial occurrences.
I wouldn't be surprised if Townsends will share something about this topic or even the topic of Astronomy in general sometime.