Geodesy

Geodesy is the science which deals with the methods of precise measurements of elements of the surface of the earth and their treatment for the determination of geographic positions on the surface of the earth. It also deals with the theory of size and shape of the earth. Geodesy may be broadly divided into two branches, namely: Geometric Geodesy; Physical Geodesy. Also, known as Satellite Geodesy. Dictionary meaning of Geodesy is dividing the earth and measurement of the earth geometry. Thus geometric geodesy appears to be purely geometrical science as it deals with the geometry of the earth. Satellite geodesy comprises the observational and computational techniques which allow the solution of geodetic problems by the use of precise measurements to, from or between artificial, mostly near thhttp://sciaeon.org/geology-and-geoscience/homee earth satellites. To understand how the shape and size of the earth is determined, three surfaces which are of interest to the geodesists have to be understood clearly. These surfaces are: Physical surface of the earth; Geoid; Reference Ellipsoid.