The authors was asked to describe and assess the range of benefits to the nation that are dependent on high-precision geodetic networks, review high-priority scientific objectives that are dependent on geodetic networks, describe the infrastructure requirements for achieving these objectives and benefits, assess the opportunities for technological innovation that will arise from renewed investment in geodetic infrastructure, and recommend a national plan for the implementation of a precision geodetic infrastructure.

The report finds that some of the critical ground station networks of the space-based geodetic observing systems have become increasingly fragile and recommends that the United States invest in upgrading and maintaining them.
The report recommends that a federal geodetic service be organized to coordinate and facilitate the modernization and long-term operation of the U.S. components.

Contents
Preface
Acknowledgments
Summary
1 Where on Earth Am I Now?
What is the Global Precise Geodetic Infrastructure?
The Value of Precise Measurements
Committee Charge and Approach
Organization of the Report
Fundamental Geodetic Parameters
The Geodetic Infrastructure
Federal Support for National Geodetic Infrastructure
2 Geodesy for the Benefit of Society
Current Benefits of the Geodetic Infrastructure
Transition from Innovative Research to Future Applications
Future Scientific and Technological Breakthroughs
3 Geodesy Requirements for Earth Science
Solid Earth Dynamics
Ocean Dynamics
Ice Dynamics
Hydrologic Cycle and Water Resources
Weather
Space Weather
Precision Spacecraft Navigation
Timing and Time Transfer
Decadal Missions
4 The Geodetic Infrastructure: Current Status and Future Requirements
Geodetic Networks
Earth Observation Satellites
International Geodetic Services
5 Geodetic Reference Frames and Co-Location Requirements
Stability and Accuracy of the International Terrestrial Reference Frame
Geodetic Techniques for Realizing the ITRF
Co-location Sites
ITRF Requirements to Meet Future Needs
Regional Reference Frames and their Relationship to the ITRF
Modernizing the North American Datum
6 Support for the Precise Geodetic Infrastructure
The Geodetic Infrastructure and Society
The National and Global Fundamental Station Network
National High-Precision, Real-Time GNSS/GPS Networks
International Collaboration and Cooperation
An Educated Geodetic Science Workforce
National Geodetic Infrastructure: A Matter of Collaboration
Conclusion
REFERENCES
Appendixes
A: Biographical Sketches of Committee MEMBERS AND STAFF
B: Presentations to the Committee
C: GLOSSARY
D: ABBREVIATIONS AND ACCRONYMS

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