Geodesy
ODC721S
1. Define and discuss the meaning of Geodesy. Your discussion should include the following, amongst
others:
(10 marks)
(a) Definition of Geodesy
(b) Three 'pillars' of Geodesy
(c) Main branches of Geodesy
2. Discussthe following movements of the Earth (use sketches if necessary):
(a) Precession and Nutation
(b) Polar Motion
[10 marks]
3. Discussthe classification of coordinate systems used in Geodesy.
[10 marks]
4. Briefly discuss the RA coordinate System.
[10 marks]
5. Briefly discuss the terms 'Geodetic Latitude', 'Astronomic Latitude,' and 'Deflection of the Vertical'.
Use a sketch if necessary.
[10 marks)
6. Explain the meaning and differences between the following:
(a) CTS
(b) ITRS
(c) ITRF
(7 marks)
7. Discussthe difference between ITRFand WGS84.
[8 marks]
8. Explain how a national geodetic coordinate system is typically defined. How was this done for the
Namibian National Geodetic Datum?
(10 marks]
9. Discuss Meridian Convergence. Your discussion should include the following, amongst others:
(a) Definition
(b) Applications and implications of meridian convergence in surveying and mapping.
[10 marks]
10. You have recorded the following observations from trig beacon Daijobe, to unknown Point A, using
a gyro theodolite and EDM:
• Geodetic azimuth: 170°15'23"
• Horizontal distance: 7325.23m (international metre)
Discussand calculate the necessary corrections that must be applied to these observations, i.norder
to calculate the Lo2217 coordinates of Point A.
Note: You must calculate the final distance and direction that will be used for the polar calculation,
but you do not have to calculate the coordinates of Point A.
Coordinates: (System: Lo2217}
Trig No. 29 (Daijobe):
Approximate coordinates of Point A:
Y+97 337.90
Y+96 098.00
X+672 615.20 MSL Elevation: 252.8m
X+679 834.00 MSL Elevation: 210m
[15 marks]
First Opportunity Question Paper
Page 2 of 3
November 2023