geodetics
Planetary shape science
Geodetics is the science of measuring and mapping Earth's shape, gravitational field, and surface features with high precision.
The field combines mathematics, physics, and surveying to establish coordinate systems and determine exact positions on the planet.
Geodetic data underlies GPS technology, cartography, and large-scale engineering projects.
Also called geodesy.
Location via three points
- baselineStandard for comparison
- datumSingle unit of information
- latitudeGeographic or personal freedom
- longitudeEast-west angular distance
azimuth · zenith · nadir · meridian · elevation · bearing · benchmark · control point
Measuring and charting terrain
- cartographyCreating geographic representations
- GISSpatial data framework
- mappingDiagram of correspondences
- cadastralOf property boundaries
topography · navigation · positioning · remote sensing · photogrammetry · plate tectonics · sea level
Oval solid shape
- reference frameBasis for measuring position
- projectionSomething that extends outward
- spheroidNearly round solid
- WGS84Earth's shape model
Precision angle-measuring instrument
- GPSSatellite-based location technology
- levelHorizontal or uniform position
- plumblineTool indicating true vertical
- gravimeterGravity-measuring instrument
clinometer · EDM · laser scanner · satellite receiver · antenna · reflector · tripod · transit
triangulation
Location via three points
- baselineStandard for comparison
- datumSingle unit of information
- latitudeGeographic or personal freedom
longitude · azimuth · zenith · nadir · meridian · elevation · bearing · benchmark · control point · station
surveying
Measuring and charting terrain
- cartographyCreating geographic representations
- GISSpatial data framework
- mappingDiagram of correspondences
cadastral · topography · navigation · positioning · remote sensing · photogrammetry · plate tectonics · sea level
ellipsoid
Oval solid shape
- reference frameBasis for measuring position
- projectionSomething that extends outward
- spheroidNearly round solid
theodolite
Precision angle-measuring instrument
- GPSSatellite-based location technology
- levelHorizontal or uniform position
- plumblineTool indicating true vertical
gravimeter · clinometer · EDM · laser scanner · satellite receiver · antenna · reflector · tripod · transit