Commissions promote the advancement of science, technology and international cooperation in their field. They establish the necessary links with sister disciplines and with the relevant Services. Commissions represent the Association in all scientific domains related to their field of geodesy.
Commission 1 – Reference Frames
IAG Commission 1 focuses on defining, realizing, and improving geodetic reference systems to support studies on Earth’s rotation, gravity field, sea level change, tectonics, and other geodynamic processes. It collaborates with IAG components, international organizations, and space geodesy groups to advance observation techniques, maintain global reference frames, and promote vertical reference systems for global change monitoring.
Commission 2 – Gravity Field
IAG Commission 2 focuses on advancing the study of the Earth’s gravity field, which is crucial for various disciplines like geophysics, oceanography, and climate research. This commission supports international cooperation and technology advancement in gravity field research, with current activities driven by the International Terrestrial Gravity Reference System (ITGRS). The commission operates through sub-commissions, study groups, and joint working groups, collaborating with other IAG components and services to address key geodetic topics, including satellite gravity missions and geoid determination.
Commission 3 – Earth Rotation and Geodynamics
Commission 3 studies Earth’s dynamic processes through the analysis of geodetic data, focusing on Earth’s rotation, deformation, and internal structure. Its objectives include advancing research on Earth rotation, geodynamics, and natural hazards, while improving models and measurements for accurate geodetic solutions. The commission promotes collaboration, data exchange, and the development of new geodetic techniques to enhance understanding of Earth’s physical processes.
Commission 4 – Positioning and Applications
IAG Commission 4 focuses on advancing positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) technologies, with an emphasis on GNSS and alternative systems. It aims to improve positioning integrity, sensor integration, and geodetic applications, addressing challenges such as interference and atmospheric disturbances. The commission works with various organizations to develop innovative solutions for PNT systems, geodetic remote sensing, and engineering geodesy applications.
