Courses & Units

Geodesy: Observing Our Changing Planet KGG307

Introduction

Geodesy is the study of the Earth's dynamic shape, size, and gravitational field. Modern space geodetic observations underpin not only our ability to determine precise location on Earth and in orbit, but a broad number of scientific fields that address questions of direct societal relevance; the study of regional and global changes in mean sea level, quantifying changes to polar ice caps, determining the velocity of tectonic plates, measurement of surface deformation associated with geo-hazards and understanding changes in hydrology based on time variable gravity and associated ground deformation. The unit is comprised of 4 problem-based modules that each address a particular application of geodetic science in understanding our dynamic planet. In completing the learning modules, you will learn about the modern geodetic observation techniques including GNSS, VLBI, SLR, altimetry and space gravity. The practical component of the unit provides you with hands-on experience in analysing real-world data to investigate processes including sea level change, climate signals, glacial motion, plate tectonics and Earth deformation.

Summary

Unit name Geodesy: Observing Our Changing Planet
Unit code KGG307
Credit points 12.5
College/School College of Sciences and Engineering
School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
Discipline Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences
Coordinator Doctor Christopher Watson
Available as an elective? Yes
Delivered By University of Tasmania
Level Advanced

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 1 On-Campus International Domestic

Key

On-campus
Off-Campus
International students
Domestic students
Note

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Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 1 26/2/2024 22/3/2024 15/4/2024 2/6/2024

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2024 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2024 will be available from the 1st October 2023. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • Explain the use of geodetic observations to observe, understand and monitor Earth processes.
  • Explain modern geodetic observation techniques.
  • Analyse geodetic data to investigate changes in a range of Earth processes.
  • Communicate the results of geodetic analyses.

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
031101 $1,118.00 $1,118.00 not applicable $3,085.00

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

Any 2 intermediate (level 200) science / geospatial science units

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

1 x 1 hour lecture/seminar per week (online, synchronous)

1 x 3 hour practical per week (on-campus, in-person)

AssessmentQuizzes (x5) (20%)|Exam (35%)|Practical Reports (x3) (45%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

All reading materials required are provided in MyLo. Each module has a dedicated reader and a list of additional readings.

Recommended

Recommended readings are provided as part of each module reader. 

LinksBooktopia textbook finder

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