Tag

Geodesy

All articles tagged with #geodesy

science5 months ago

Starlink Satellites Disrupt Astronomical Observations and Cosmic Research

Scientists rely on tracking distant black holes via radio telescopes to precisely measure Earth's position for satellite navigation and Earth observation, but increasing human-made radio signals from wifi, mobile phones, and satellites are congesting the radio spectrum, threatening these critical measurements. To address this, international cooperation is needed to allocate more radio spectrum lanes and establish radio quiet zones, ensuring the continued accuracy of geodetic measurements essential for modern technology and infrastructure.

science6 months ago

Wi-Fi and Phone Satellites Obstruct Scientists' View of Black Holes and the Universe

Scientists rely on radio signals from distant black holes to precisely measure Earth's position for satellite navigation and observation, but increasing human-made radio signals from Wi-Fi, mobile phones, and satellites are causing interference, threatening these essential measurements. To address this, international cooperation is needed to allocate more radio spectrum lanes and establish radio quiet zones, ensuring the continued accuracy of geodetic measurements and satellite services.

science7 months ago

Scientists Uncover Why South Africa's Land Is Rising

A recent study reveals that parts of South Africa are experiencing land uplift due to drought-induced water loss, which reduces gravitational pressure on the Earth's crust, allowing it to rebound. This widespread vertical movement, tracked via GPS, highlights the significant impact of water depletion on geophysical processes and offers a potential new method for drought detection and climate monitoring.

science1 year ago

Why the Earth Appears Flat Despite Its Round Shape

The Earth appears flat to us because we are small creatures living on a vast sphere, making it difficult to perceive its curvature from the ground. Our eyes can only see a limited horizon, about 3 miles, which isn't enough to notice the Earth's roundness. To see the curvature, one must be at a high altitude, like in a plane or from space. Additionally, Earth is not a perfect sphere but an oblate spheroid, slightly wider at the equator due to its rotation.

science-and-environment1 year ago

"Revised Elevations: Colorado's 14ers Undergo Height Changes"

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has remeasured Colorado's 14ers, resulting in a 2-foot reduction in their heights due to more precise GPS measurements and a better understanding of gravity and the Earth's curvature. Some peaks have seen changes in their rankings, with Sunshine Peak getting a promotion and Huron Peak being temporarily humbled. The updated measurements have implications for various fields and will require adjustments to town welcome-sign elevations, but they ensure that all fourteeners maintain their coveted status of being over 14,000 feet.