What technological advances allowed European sailors to find routes to Asia?

European sailors were able to find routes to Asia due to several key technological advances, including the development of the caravel, a fast and maneuverable ship that could sail into the wind. The invention of the astrolabe and later the sextant improved navigation by allowing sailors to determine their latitude at sea. Additionally, advancements in cartography, including more accurate maps, helped sailors better understand and plan their routes. Lastly, the magnetic compass provided reliable directional guidance, facilitating longer voyages across open waters.