Geodesie
In this Geodetic Supply Chain course, you will learn what makes it possible for us to use GNSS systems, satellites, and coordinate systems. The global geodetic supply chain consists of ground observation stations, data centers, analysis centers, and highly qualified experts who observe the Earth and convert these observations into geodetic products that are essential for accurate and reliable communication with satellites.
Geodesy is the science concerned with measuring and mapping the shape, size, and gravitational field of the Earth. This knowledge forms the basis for land surveying, mapmaking, and the dimensioning of construction and infrastructure projects.
In surveying, we use GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems), among other tools. Additionally, geodetic data is applied in various other sciences, utilizing satellites that provide more than just navigation data.
The Earth is constantly moving relative to other celestial bodies. Satellites in orbit around the Earth also continuously change position. Geodesy determines the relative positions of these objects and calculates these movements to ensure high accuracy. This science provides crucial measurement data—so-called geodetic products—to surveyors, hydrographers, and climate scientists, among others.
The geodetic supply chain consists of:
This chain ensures continuous observation of the Earth and the conversion of observations into products that are essential for accurate communication with satellites.
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Â
Note: For basic knowledge of GNSS/GPS systems, satellites, and coordinates—essential for understanding the fundamentals of a geodetic supply chain—please review the GPS basics course
An important component of this is the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS), managed by the International Association of Geodesy (IAG).
The ITRF is the consistent reference frame against which all geodetic measurements are benchmarked. To ensure accuracy, new versions of the ITRF are regularly released based on data from over 1,800 observatories worldwide.
GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite Systems)
Measures positions on Earth using signals from satellites (such as GPS and Galileo) to track plate movements and sea level changes, among other things.
VLBI (Very Long Baseline Interferometry)
Measures distances between radio telescopes using signals from quasars; accurately determines Earth’s rotation and orientation.
SLR (Satellite Laser Ranging)
Sends laser pulses to satellites and measures the reflection time; provides insight into distance and the gravitational field.
DORIS (Doppler Orbitography and Radiopositioning Integrated by Satellite)
Measures position and velocity with high accuracy using radio signals; useful for satellite orbits and sea level monitoring.
Geodetic data are indispensable for climate science and the development of adaptation strategies.
Need help?
Contact us9:00 – 9:30 AM: Welcome and introduction
9:30 – 10:30: Session 1 – Fundamentals of Geodesy
10:30 – 10:45 | Break
10:45 – 12:00: Block 2 – The Global Geodetic Infrastructure
12:00 – 13:00 | Lunch break
13:00 – 14:30 | Session 3 – The four observation techniques explained
2:30 PM – 2:45 PM | Break
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM: Session 4 – Geodesy and Climate Science
3:45 PM – 4:15 PM | Session 5 – Future and societal relevance
4:15 – 4:30 PM | Conclusion and Q&A
The participant:
Do you have questions about the course content? Or are you unsure whether the course aligns with your learning goals or preferences? Would you prefer an in-house or private course? We’d be happy to help.
In this course, you will learn how the global geodetic infrastructure works, from satellite measurements to data processing. You will gain insight into the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF), the measurement instruments used—such as GNSS, VLBI, SLR, and DORIS—and how geodesy is applied in fields such as infrastructure, climate research, and risk management.
The course is suitable for (prospective) surveyors, hydrographers, GIS specialists, climate researchers, and other professionals who work with geospatial data. It is also relevant for policymakers and engineers who want to gain a better understanding of the infrastructure behind precise positioning.
A basic understanding of geography, surveying, or GIS is helpful but not required. The course begins with an introduction to the fundamentals of geodesy and gradually builds toward more complex concepts such as reference frames and global measurement networks.
The ITRF is the standard on which all precise position measurements worldwide are based. It makes it possible to reliably measure and compare changes on Earth—such as sea-level rise, tectonic plate movements, or land subsidence.
Geodetic measurements provide crucial data on changes in sea level, the melting of ice sheets, and vertical land movement. This information is indispensable for climate models, policy-making, and the development of adaptation strategies for vulnerable areas.
The global average sea level is determined using a combination of various measurement methods, with geodesy playing a crucial role. Below is an overview of how this is done:
1. Satellite altimetry (space-based measurements)
Geodesy: Precise positioning of the satellite is made possible by geodetic systems such as GPS, DORIS, and laser ranging (SLR). Without these techniques, the measurement would be inaccurate.
2. Tide measurements (tide gauges, historical)
Geodesy: By using GNSS receivers at these measuring stations, ground movement can be corrected, making the distinction between sea level rise and land subsidence clear.
3. Gravimetry (measuring mass changes)
Geodesy: Gravimetry is a branch of geodesy that helps explain why sea levels are changing, not just by how much.
4. Global Reference Frame
What: Consistent global measurements require a stable coordinate system (such as the ITRF).
Geodesy: Provides this reference frame through techniques such as VLBI, SLR, GNSS, and DORIS. This is essential for interpreting elevation changes on a global scale. Without geodesy, sea level measurements would be inaccurate and not comparable across time and location.
