GPS Leveling

Finding (Calculating) H from measured h and known N is

defined as GPS-Leveling.

H=h-N
Gps provides a geometrical height referred to a selected
ellipsoid which is needed for the positioning in three
dimensional space in terms of geodetic latitude, longitude, and
height (also called ellipsoidal height, h). On the other hand,
Geometric leveling or differential leveling is referred to a
physically defined surface since the light of sight of the level is
perpendicular to the plumb line which is alos perpendicular to
geoid. What we are measuring in the differential leveling is the
height from geoid (orthometric height, H). The difference
between the ellipsoidal and orthonometric height is defined as
geoid undulation, N. The relationship between these heights
can be expressed by:

h=H+N
Now the question arises:
“ Can GPS replace diffrential leveling?”
The problem, which GPS has for the height determination,
is the lack of a precise geoid, in other words, we need to
know a precise gravity field. As soon as suhc a precise
gravity field (geoid) is at our disposal or calculated, GPS
will sure replace the diffrential leveling in the next future.
Satellite missions like CHAMP, GRACE, and GOCE will
contribute to the achievement of this goal. That means,
cost manpower, and time will be saved enourmously.

Note: In a extensive flat area where no large gravity

anomalies() could occur, in other words, N is
smooth and known very well GPS can replace
levelling.
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EXAMPLES