Knowledge Bank

The determination of the exterior potential field of the earth may be carried out using satellite observations, gravity observations, or a combination of both. This paper is concerned with how accurately we can describe the gravitational potential coefficients of the earth based on gravity data alone. This problem is considered from the viewpoint of existing and potential gravity material. Comparisons are made with accuracies being obtained from current satellite determinations of potential coefficients. The limitations and the advantages of using gravity data are discussed.