CREATING AN ACCURATE GEOID

NOAA currently has efforts underway to create a centimeter accurate geoid. This project was a first step towards meeting this goal. The purpose of this project was to characterize and analyze the accuracy, precision, and reliability of existing gravity records for the National Geodetic Survey, (NGS) to discuss the suitability of this data for a modern gravity geoid survey. This was done by reviewing the existing paper and electronic records to see if any improvements were needed before the NGS could accept the data set. It was found that much of the data need to be digitized and further statistical analysis is needed in order to identify any problem areas. If problem areas cannot be resolved, further gravity surveys may be necessary to fill the data gaps. A better understanding of this data will lead to a more accurate geoid model. If a new survey is required, the cost and time will vary according to the survey grid spacing. A centimeter accurate geoid will prove invaluable for many future scientific, as well as industrial projects. .