Applied Geodesy

Period: Second Semester

Course Unit Contents:

1. Introduction to Applied Geodesy
– Course goals and structure
– Overview of geodetic methods and Earth deformation problems
– Applications: from plate tectonics to climate change and disaster monitoring

2. Fundamentals of Deformation
– Strain, stress, and constitutive relationships
– Elastic deformation: Hooke’s Law, Green's functions
– Viscous deformation and Maxwell rheology
– Poroelasticity and fluid-solid interaction in the crust

3. Observing the Earth’s Motion
– Geodetic reference frames
– GNSS/GPS principles and positioning
– Satellite radar interferometry (InSAR): techniques and limitations
– Gravimetry, tiltmeters, and other geodetic sensors
– Temporal resolution, accuracy, and noise sources

4. Geodetic Inversion and Interpretation
– Least squares inversion for deformation sources
– Bayesian and regularized approaches (basics)
– Estimating fault slip, pressure changes, and subsurface properties

5. Applications to Tectonic Processes
– Interseismic, coseismic, postseismic deformation
– Slow slip events and transient signals
– Earthquake cycle modeling with GNSS/InSAR

6. Applications to Environmental Deformation
– Groundwater withdrawal and land subsidence
– Glacier retreat and cryosphere loading
– Volcanic deformation and monitoring
– Permafrost thaw and seasonal deformation signals

7. Geodesy and Climate Change
– Sea level rise and crustal motion
– Mass redistribution (ice, water, atmosphere)
– GRACE/GRACE-FO observations

8. Geodesy for Natural Disasters
– Rapid response to earthquakes and volcanic eruptions
– Early warning systems
– Infrastructure stability monitoring

9. Case Studies and Project Work
– Hands-on analysis of a real dataset
– Student-led discussions of selected case studies

10. Final Review and Discussion
– Synthesis of methods and applications
– Outlook for future geodetic technologies

Planned learning activities and teaching methods:

• Lectures with board work and slides
• Real data demonstrations and analysis
• In-class discussions of geophysical case studies
• Optional project work in small groups
• Short practical exercises using open-source tools (e.g., Python notebooks, Jupyter, or QGIS)

In addition to contacting the course instructor, students with disabilities, Specific Learning Disorders (SLD), Special Educational Needs (SEN), and other health conditions can reach out to the Student Services Office - Inclusion Unit to receive more information about opportunities to access teaching with specific support and tools.