The goals of studying geodesy: Understanding Earth's Shape and Size Resource Management Accurate Positioning Coordinate Systems and Datums Global and Regional Monitoring Navigation and GIS Earthquake and Volcano Monitoring Satellite Orbits and Dynamics Timekeeping Climate Studies What is geodesy? geo daisia” -> dividing the Earth. - Geodesy is the science of measuring and representing the geometry, gravity, and spatial orientation of the Earth. - Geodesy consists of higher geodesy that is concerned with measuring Earth on the global scale, and practical geodesy that includes surveying/measuring parts or regions of Earth. - In the English-speaking world, geodesy refers to the science of measuring geospatial information, while geomatics encompasses practical applications of geodesy on local and regional scales which includes land surveying. Why do we study geodesy? Helps us understand measurements of Earth and its physical attributes. Every science branch that includes geographical studies has foundations that are based on geodesy discoveries. Geophysics, Meteorology, Physics, Geography History of geodesy  The idea of measuring land existed since the ancient civilizations. - We find the beginning in ancient Egypt in the Nile Valley.  - Fertile plots were cultivated by various individuals, and since the Nile would flood, it was necessary to measure it for after the floods. The idea of geodesy was continued in 276BC -> Eratosthen’s first attempt at measuring dimensions of the Earth. - He developed an angle measuring method using the Sun. - Eratosthen is the best known for being the first person known to calculate the circumference of the Earth. *Eratosthen's studies were a base foundation for the geodesy we know today.

Surveying means the measurement of distances, areas, depths, altitudes and the like on the earth.  - Data obtained are essential in the building of highways, dams and bridges. The surveyor also works with map and chart makers to supply correctly measured data. - The surveyor deals with : distances, angles and directions. Electronic devices have brought more precise techniques to distant measurement.