What Is Geodesy? The Science That Helps You Navigate the World

Have you ever wondered how your GPS knows exactly where you are, or how maps are made so precisely? The answer lies in a scientific field called geodesy.

Geodesy is defined as the science of accurately measuring and understanding the Earth’s geometric shape, its orientation in space, and its gravity field.

According to the National Ocean Service, geodesy plays a key role in many aspects of modern life — including helping people get from point A to point B.