| Abstract: | Global satellite networks of the highest accuracy are needed for all geodynamic investigations. The investigation of possible changes in the inner geometry of the station network is necessary because such changes would influence the determination of polar coordinates, length of day and other parameters.The different possibilities for such investigations (epoch-related coordinate sets, adjustment of station motions, determination of global kinematic plate parameters) are discussed in detail. The estimable parameters describing crustal motions are pointed out.Laser-ranging data from the LAGEOS satellite during the MERIT Campaign are used for practical computations. These computations demonstrate an accuracy for distance determinations below the decimeter level. The time span of the data (14 months) is not sufficient for the computation of significant station motions, but it is valuable for evaluation of the model's accuracy. |
