Aerial gravity measurements

Abstract

Tests with an airborne LaCoste and Romberg Sea Gravity Meter (surface type) have shown that gravity measurements in a flying aircraft are feasible. At high altitudes the aircraft was a sufficiently stable platform for the gravity meter to operate satisfactorily. Analysis of in-flight acceleration problems has shown that gravity observations can be made at high aircraft velocities with proper flight programing and navigation systems. North, south, and west traverses over an Askania tracking range gave 5 min average gravity readings which plotted into smooth profiles. An accuracy of better than 10 mgal was obtained which meets requirements for geodetic applications where mean gravity values for 1°×1° squares are required.