Geodät

Geodät is the German term for a geodesist, a professional who studies geodesy, the science concerned with measuring and understanding the shape of the Earth, its orientation in space, the gravity field, and its rotation. In English, the equivalent term is geodesist or geodetic engineer.

Geodäten determine precise positions on the Earth's surface, establish and maintain coordinate reference systems, and monitor crustal movement and deformation. They work across surveying, cartography, civil engineering, navigation, Earth science, and space geodesy, often on projects such as large infrastructure surveys, land development, and monitoring tectonic activity.

Techniques used include global navigation satellite systems (GNSS), leveling, triangulation, gravimetry, astronomical and terrestrial surveying, laser scanning, and radar interferometry (InSAR). Data are integrated in geodetic networks to define frames such as the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) and national or regional systems like ETRS89.

Education and professional practice typically require a degree in geodesy, geomatics, surveying engineering, or a related field. Training emphasizes measurement theory, statistics, data processing, and Geographic Information Systems. Professional licensure or certification may apply in many countries.

Geodäten contribute to mapping, construction, navigation, and scientific research, including geophysics and climate studies. They collaborate with universities, government agencies, and industry, maintaining primary geospatial infrastructure and advancing our understanding of the Earth's geometry and dynamics.