Coordinates
Numerical values that precisely determine a point's location within a specific coordinate system, typically expressed as latitude, longitude, and elevation.
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.