What does a range spotting of "Short" indicate?

A range spotting of "Short" indicates that a round has impacted between the observer and the adjusting point. This feedback is crucial for making corrections to ensure subsequent rounds land where intended. When the observer notes that the round has landed short, it tells them that the impact point is nearer to them than the target, which necessitates adjustments in the trajectory or distance to account for the shortfall. This understanding is vital for effectively coordinating artillery fire, ensuring that the correct adjustments are made to achieve precise target engagement.

The other options represent different scenarios: rounds landing beyond the adjusting point or directly on target would not be classified as "short," and if a round is not visible to the observer, it would not provide actionable range feedback. Therefore, recognizing that "short" means the round landed closer to the observer helps in safely adjusting fire for accuracy and effectiveness.