Gravity fields

Variations in gravity across the earth's surface affect the survey of the globe, no matter whether the survey is done by satellite, by plane or on land. Only if we know the variation we can factor in how this affects the surveys.

GRACE FO-mission.  (Illustration: NASA)

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Highly accurate measurements of the gravitational field are needed to refine the precision of satellite navigation systems such as GPS and the European Galileo under construction. At the same time, because the measurements can reveal hidden deposits of oil, water and minerals in the subsoil.

The department's measurements of the gravitational field is conducted both from the surface of the earth and from satellites and aircraft. DTU Space has previously contributed to ESA's satellite mission GOCE with the development of methods for using its gravity measurements, among other things for mapping ocean currents.