Track the Earth with satellite precision and see the invisible network that powers GPS, climate science, and global navigation. In this one-day geodesy course, you’ll uncover how ground stations, satellites, and global experts work together to map our planet in real time. From reference frames to gravity fields, you’ll learn how geodetic data keeps our world measured, monitored, and moving in the right direction.
Geodetic Supply Chain
GeodesyGeodesy
Geodetic supply chain
Have you ever wondered how GPS systems know exactly where you are? Or how we track rising sea levels, shifting coastlines, or melting ice caps? The answer lies in geodesy—the science of measuring Earth’s shape, size, position, and gravity. It’s the foundation that lets us map, monitor, and understand our planet with pinpoint accuracy.
Geodesy powers everything from land surveying and infrastructure projects to climate research and satellite navigation. Yet behind this technology is a global system you rarely hear about: the geodetic supply chain. This vast network connects over 1,800 ground stations, data centers, and expert teams worldwide. Together, they gather and process the information needed to determine exact positions—both on Earth and in space.
At the heart of this system is the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF). Think of it as Earth’s official coordinate system. It keeps satellite-based tools aligned, even as the planet shifts and rotates. Organizations like the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) and the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) work behind the scenes to keep this framework stable.
As climate change speeds up and global data needs grow, understanding this hidden infrastructure becomes essential. That’s where this course comes in. Whether you work in engineering, environmental science, or just love how things work, you’ll get a clear look at how our world stays measured and mapped.
What will you learn
In just one day, you’ll uncover how the geodetic supply chain powers everything from GPS to global climate tracking. First, you’ll learn what geodesy actually is—and why it’s so important in everyday life. Then, you’ll dive into how satellites, ground stations, and analysis centers all work together.
Along the way, you’ll explore the role of the ITRF. You’ll see how it helps us locate Earth in space and measure moving satellites with incredible precision. We’ll show how geodesy connects the dots between systems and makes small corrections that keep your apps, maps, and models accurate.
Through real-world examples, interactive sessions, and visual demos, you’ll discover how geodetic data shapes the decisions we make—and why it matters for building a more resilient future.
Why choose this course
If your work depends on accurate location data, this course helps you understand the science that keeps everything aligned. It’s designed to simplify a complex system and show its value across industries.
- Taught by a geodesy expert with hands-on experience
- Real-world examples and demonstrations that make abstract concepts easy to grasp
- A compact, one-day format full of insight—without the overwhelm
- Relevant across industries—from surveying and hydrography to engineering and policy
Course structure
The day starts off with a friendly welcome and a short introduction to the key ideas behind geodesy. Right from the beginning, you’ll get a clear overview of how Earth’s shape, gravity, and position in space are measured—and why those measurements matter in real-world applications.
From there, we move into the global geodetic infrastructure. You’ll discover how the geodetic supply chain operates, understand the role of organizations like GGOS and IAG, and explore how the International Terrestrial Reference Frame keeps our global coordinates accurate. To bring it all together, real-life examples and case studies will show how this stable reference system is built, monitored, and maintained over time.
After the lunch break, we turn our focus to the four core technologies used to observe the Earth: GNSS (like GPS), VLBI (radio telescopes), SLR (laser ranging), and DORIS (Doppler tracking). You’ll learn how each system works individually and how, when combined, they provide a reliable, unified view of our planet. To reinforce your understanding, a visual demo of a working geodetic observatory will bring these systems to life.
Later in the afternoon, we shift to how geodesy supports climate research. You’ll see how satellite data helps monitor sea level rise, track vertical land movements, and measure changes in ice mass. Additionally, we’ll explain how ocean and atmospheric circulation can even impact gravity measurements. Missions like GRACE and GRACE-FO will be covered in depth, showing how geodesy contributes to smarter climate strategies.
Finally, we close with a forward-looking session focused on the future of geodesy. You’ll explore why it’s critical to maintain and protect this global infrastructure, especially as the demand for precise data continues to grow. In conclusion, you’ll learn how geodesy supports broader goals like the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. The day wraps up with an open Q&A and a chance to reflect on everything you’ve learned.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand how the global geodetic supply chain supports accurate satellite positioning and Earth observation.
- Learn how GNSS, VLBI, SLR, and DORIS technologies work together to measure Earth’s shape, movement, and gravity.
- Gain insight into the International Terrestrial Reference Frame (ITRF) and its role in ensuring precise global coordinates.
- Discover how geodetic data is used to monitor sea level rise, land movement, and ice mass changes for climate research.
- Recognize the importance of maintaining a robust geodetic infrastructure to support sustainable development and critical decision-making.
More Information?
Do you have questions about the course content? Not sure if the course aligns with your learning objectives? Or would you prefer a private session or in-company training? We’re happy to assist—feel free to get in touch.
Frequently Asked Questions
We aim to make our courses accessible to as many people as possible. If the course fee is a concern, instead of registering directly, you can indicate on the registration form that you’d like to receive a quote tailored to your needs. In many cases, we can offer flexible solutions. For instance, we can adjust the course content for large groups, shorten the course based on existing knowledge, or offer daily rates to suit your requirements.
Yes, you can reach out to the instructor with questions for up to 2 weeks after the course. Since the instructor is likely teaching other courses, we recommend emailing your questions to info@geo-ict.com. We’ll forward your inquiry to the instructor, and you’ll receive a response within 24 hours. After the 2-week period, we recommend using our Personalized Online Support for continued assistance.
Yes, we offer on-site training regularly throughout the Netherlands. Our instructor will bring laptops for the participants, and all you need to do is arrange a suitable room at your location.
Please send your requirements to info@geo-ict.com, and we will provide a customized quote, which will include travel and accommodation costs. Once the quote is confirmed, our course coordinator will reach out to schedule the training days.
After each course, participants receive a link to our evaluation portal where you can share your feedback on what you liked and didn’t like. We strive to provide a great experience for all our participants, but if you have a complaint, please click on ‘Complaints Procedure’ in the portal. This document will guide you through the steps to take. Geo-ICT Training Center, Netherlands, is a member of the Dutch Council for Training and Education (NRTO), ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Courses are typically scheduled according to the Dutch time zone, with sessions running from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. For participants in different time zones, we adjust the course times in consultation with you.