Triangulation

Triangulation is a classical geodetic surveying method used to determine positions by measuring angles in a network of interconnected triangles. Starting from a precisely measured baseline, additional points are calculated using angular observations and trigonometric relationships.

In geodesy, triangulation formed the backbone of national and continental geodetic networks before the advent of satellite-based positioning. It was fundamental for establishing horizontal reference frames, mapping large regions, and determining the Earth’s shape and size. Although largely replaced by GNSS in modern practice, triangulation remains historically significant and forms the basis of many legacy geodetic reference systems.