Coordinates are numerical values that allow precise determination of any point's location on the Earth's surface or in space. In geodesy and surveying, coordinates are a fundamental concept without which precise cartography and measurements would not be possible.
Coordinate systems in Latvia:
- LKS-92 - Latvian geodetic coordinate system used for all official surveying work
- WGS-84 - global coordinate system used by GPS and GNSS devices
- ETRS89 - European Terrestrial Reference System
- Baltic Height System 1977 - height determination system
Types of coordinates:
- Geographic coordinates - latitude and longitude in degrees, minutes, seconds
- Plane coordinates - X and Y values in meters (LKS-92)
- Spatial coordinates - X, Y, and Z (height) values
Why are coordinates important?
Precise coordinates ensure:
- Accurate determination of land property boundaries
- Correct placement of construction objects
- Development of maps and plans
- Navigation and orientation
- Control of engineering works
Coordinate precision:
Modern GNSS technologies allow coordinate determination with centimeter or even millimeter precision. In Latvia, the LatPos base station system is used for surveying work, providing high-precision real-time measurements throughout the country.