This unit requires participation in person, on campus, for the practical session teaching activities and all of the assurance of learning assessment tasks.
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 | Sciences and Engineering School of Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Discipline | Geography, Planning, and Spatial Sciences |
| Coordinator | Associate Professor Christopher Watson |
| Available as an elective? | Yes |
| Delivered By | University of Tasmania |
| Level | Advanced |
Sustainable Development Goals
The Unit Coordinator has identified that this unit aligns with the following UN Sustainable Development Goals. We welcome your thoughts and feedback on the alignment of the unit with these goals.
Availability
Specific information on 2027 unit availability will be available in August
Learning Outcomes
- Explain modern geodetic observation techniques.
- Explain the use of geodetic observations to observe and understand Earth processes.
- Analyse geodetic data to investigate a range of Earth processes.
- Communicate the results of geodetic analyses using appropriate scientific conventions.
Fee Information
2027 fee information will be available in August.
Requisites
Prerequisites
Any 2 intermediate (level 200) science / geospatial science unitsTeaching
| Teaching Pattern | 1 x 1 hour lecture/seminar per week (online, synchronous) 1 x 3 hour practical per week (on-campus, in-person) |
|---|---|
| Assessment | Poster presentation (crustal motion module) (20%)|Video presentation (crustal motion module) (20%)|Written report (sea level module) (20%)|Invigilated Written Exam (40%) |
| Timetable | View 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. |
The University reserves the right to amend or remove courses and unit availabilities, as appropriate.