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Space Geodesy
Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:34:50
Abstract
GNSS, VLBI, SLR/LLR and satellite altimetry: Principles, instrumentation and observation equation. Modelling and estimation of station coordinates and station motion. Ionospheric and tropospheric refraction and estimation of atmospheric parameters. Equation of motion of the unperturbed and perturbed satellite orbit. Perturbation theory and orbit determination.
Objective
Understanding the major observation techniques in space geodesy as modern methods applied in Earth system monitoring (geometry, rotation and gravity field of the Earth and the atmosphere), in national surveying and navigation.
Content
Overview of GNSS, Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI), Satellite and Lunar Laser Ranging (SLR/LLR), Satellite Radar Altimetry with the basic principles, the instruments and observation equations. Modelling of the station motions and the estimation of station coordinates. Basics of wave propagation in the atmosphere. Signal propagation in the ionosphere and troposphere for the different observation techniques and the determination of atmospheric parameters. Equation of motion of the unperturbed and perturbed satellite orbit. Osculating and mean orbital elements. General and special perturbation theory and the determination of satellite orbits.
Resources
Lecture Notes
Script M. Rothacher "Space Geodesy"
General Information
- Language
- English
- Levels
- MSC
- Frequency
- Yearly recurring
Examination
- Type
- session examination
- Mode
- oral 30 minutes
Course Components
| Type | Title | Time & Place | Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| lecture with exercise | Space Geodesy |
|
3 h weekly |