Distance measurement with the aid of electromagnetic waves

Abstract

Distance measurement with the aid of electromagnetic waves permits the determination of sides of any length with an accuracy equal or superior to that of a base length plus angular measurements. In conjunction with the automation of measurement and calculation, geodesy is now able to determine quickly and with high accuracy positions on the Earth's surface, and of objects on the surface or in outer space. Therefore, these procedures are of high importance to all geosciences. The theoretical fundamentals of the measuring procedures are described first. The form of the path curve and the determination of a representative wave velocity along this path curve are dealt with. The principles of the measuring instruments are explained, and a survey is given of the electro-optic and microwave instruments now available. Possible applications of the measuring procedures in geodesy and other sciences are discussed and applications in use are described. An outlook is provided on the future development of geodetic procedures for which electromagnetic distance measurement will play an important part.