The Present Position of Geodesy

Abstract

THE article by Commandant Bourgeois in the Revue Générale des Sciences for April 30, on the present position of geodetic science is both instructive and useful with reference to those problems in geodesy which are just now before the scientific public of this country. There is, in the first place, a notable scheme for the construction of a geodetic arc in Africa which shall extend from the Cape to Cairo. Of this Commandant Bourgeois has taken due note, entering rather fully into the details of such difficulties as its projectors may find in the way of its successful accomplishment. There is also an agitation recently started amongst astronomers and surveyors, which has for its object the revision of the geodetic triangulation of England in order that it may be brought into line, scientifically, with the geodetic triangulation of adjoining countries, and take its place (as it should) as a link in more than one European system of which the value would be largely increased by this extension. Of this Commandant Bourgeois takes no note (probably because he is unaware of its existence), nor does he concern himself with any past achievements in the field of geodesy in which England has borne a part either at home or in India.