The Importance of Integrating the Azerbaijan National Vertical Datum Into the European Vertical Reference System: Determining Azerbaijan National Geoid Model

Abstract

Height information is of great importance in engineering measurements and geodesy, and therefore it constitutes one of the main subjects of physical geodesy. As it is known, the ellipsoid height of the measurement point is obtained when GNSS measurements and calculations are used. However, orthometric heights measured and calculated from the mean sea level are used in engineering projects and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) applications carried out in countries. Therefore, ellipsoid heights determined by GNSS need to be converted into orthometric heights using a highaccuracy national geoid model. By determining the national geoid in question, the ellipsoid heights obtained from GNSS can be directly converted into the national vertical datum of the relevant country. On the other hand, elevations in topographic maps used both in infrastructure works for engineering purposes and for military purposes are produced based on the national vertical datum of the relevant country. On the other hand, even though the topographic maps currently used in the state organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan are harmonized with NATO map standards, but the national height system of Azerbaijan has not been integrated into the European Vertical Reference System (EVRS) yet. However, it is believed that the integration of the national height system of Azerbaijan into the EVRS will provide favorable opportunities for international cooperation activities in the field of mapping and will make an important contribution to the sustainable development of the country's economy. In this article, necessity of integrating Azerbaijan's national height system into the EVRS and determining a national geoid model are discussed.