Clarke1866

Clarke1866 refers to a geodetic datum established by Alexander Ross Clarke in 1866. This datum was a significant advancement in the measurement and mapping of the Earth's surface, particularly in British territories. It was based on the Clarke 1866 spheroid, an ellipsoid of revolution that approximated the Earth's shape. The datum defined a reference point and orientation for geodetic surveys, allowing for consistent and accurate measurements across large areas.

The Clarke1866 datum was widely used for many decades, especially in North America. It served as the basis for numerous topographic maps and coordinate systems. While it was a crucial development for its time, advancements in surveying technology and a more precise understanding of the Earth's geoid led to the development of more sophisticated geodetic datums. Modern datums, such as the World Geodetic System (WGS) series, offer greater accuracy and are globally applicable. Despite being superseded, the historical significance of the Clarke1866 datum in the history of geodesy and cartography remains important.