The British Geological Survey is a world-leading geological survey. It focuses on public-good science for government, and research to understand earth and environmental processes. It is the UK's premier provider of objective and authoritative geoscientific data, information and knowledge.
The Herstmonceux Geodetic Observatory features a number of state of the art satellite tracking, atmospheric sensing and gravity measuring sensors. Many of its observations are made freely and rapidly available to the global community, primarily those affiliated to the International Association of Geodesy (IAG). A primary aim is to contribute to global efforts to realise a terrestrial reference frame at 1mm accuracy. Scientists at the observatory engage in orbital analyses in order to carry out geodetic research, and in analysis of accurate gravity data determined on-site and elsewhere during gravity campaign field trips.
The observatory is fully operational, with some
components in place since 1983. Continuous upgrades ensure that the site is
competitive on the global scene. Most of the laser range and GNSS observations
are freely available via the IAG Services data centres. The observatory can
carry out some observations on request; it is currently involved in an
EU-funded satellite tracking project coordinated in the UK by the UKSA. Applications
should be made directly to the Observatory.
