Session G0.1

G0.1 | Geodesy – From Invisible to Essential

Geodesy – From Invisible to Essential

Convener: Liubov Poshyvailo-Strube | Co-convener: José Carlos Rodríguez

Programme

| Wed, 30 Apr, 16:15–18:00 (CEST)

Room 0.96/97

Geodesy is a fundamental Earth sciences discipline that describes the Earth’s place in space (i.e., shape, size, orientation, gravity field) over time. Although often invisible, geodesy is widely used in various sectors where precise positioning, navigation, and timing are required, and is essential for socio-economic development. In the coming decade, the use of geospatial information is expected to grow substantially (e.g., for hazard risk assessment, natural resource monitoring, pandemic prevention), leading to increased demand for geodetic services. But where do we stand today? Are we fully aware of the critical role of geodesy for societal needs? And what challenges are we facing?
This session will present the First Joint Development Plan for Global Geodesy, along with the concept of a global geodesy supply chain. The panellists will discuss key weaknesses as well as implementation of potential practical solutions to increase the visibility of geodesy. The session will also explore ways to improve cooperation between different scientific groups and policymakers to strengthen the global geodesy supply chain for the benefit of humanity and the planet.

This Special Session aims to raise awareness about the importance of geodetic products for socio-economic development and the need to strengthen the global geodesy supply chain. The multidisciplinary panellists will share views on their reliance on geodesy within their fields of expertise. They will also discuss the importance of global collaboration to enhance the recognition of geodesy and develop the next generation of geodesists. Participants of the Special Session will have an opportunity to actively engage in the discussion and contribute to the joint effort to strengthen support for geodesy.

Session moderator: Nicholas James Brown, Head of Office, United Nations Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence (UN-GGCE), Bonn, Germany.

Solicited speakers:

Richard Gross, President of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) and Senior Research Scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory of the California Institute of Technology, USA.
Matt King, Director of the Australian Centre for Excellence in Antarctic Science (ACEAS) and Professor of Polar Geodesy at the University of Tasmania, Australia.
Anna Kłos, Associate Professor, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Military University of Technology in Warsaw, Poland.
Narelle van der Wel, Science and Communication Officer, World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Secretariat, World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Geneva, Switzerland.