Course overview
This course will introduce students to the fundamental principles of geometrical and physical geodesy. To critically review the application of these principles across the geodetic and wider surveying spectrum. Geodetic reference systems. Geodetic control networks. Height systems and geoid definition. Advanced ellipsoidal computations. Coordinate Systems and Datum transformations. Elementary potential theory and the role of gravity. Geoid-ellipsoid separations. Space geodesy. Map projections.
Course learning outcomes
- Demonstrate an overview of geometrical and physical geodesy.
- Explain the concepts of coordinate reference systems and coordinate reference frames, with respect to their determination and application in geodesy and surveying.
- Critically review the relationship between the spheroid, ellipsoid, and geoid.
- Articulate the principles for determining and converting between ground-based survey measurements and projection-based reference frames/systems.