Review article
https://doi.org/10.32909/kg.24.44.1
Geodesy in the Context of Scientific and Technological Progress: From Euclid to Geodesy 4.0
Ani Adriyanova Stefanova
orcid.org/0009-0008-4879-6665
; Department of Applied Geodesy, Faculty of Geodesy, University of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Geodesy, Sofia, Bulgaria
*
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
This paper provides an overview of the historical and technological development of geodetic science, tracing its evolution from ancient civilizations to the modern digital era. It examines key transformations in geodetic methods across major historical milestones, including the Industrial Revolution and the Digital Revolution, with a focus on the integration of advanced technologies such as GNSS, LiDAR, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and artificial intelligence (AI). The study outlines the transition from mechanical and optical instruments to electronic and satellite-based systems, as well as the growing role of AI and GIS technologies in geospatial data analysis. The paper emphasizes the importance of geodesy in infrastructure development, environmental monitoring, and spatial modelling. Recent innovations in automated mapping, big data processing, and real-time applications are also discussed, with a focus on the shift toward "Geodesy 4.0" − a term that encapsulates the integration of smart technologies, automation, and real-time data processing in modern geodesy. Finally, it can be concluded that geodesy has evolved into a dynamic and interdisciplinary field, with geodesists driving innovations that impact a wide range of areas, including infrastructure planning, environmental monitoring, spatial modelling, and real-time data applications in the economic and construction domains.
Keywords
geodesy; GNSS; LiDAR; UAVs; artificial intelligence; GIS; geospatial data; automated mapping; Geodesy 4.0
Hrčak ID:
345231
URI
Publication date:
31.12.2025.
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