In the heart of Bulgaria, a quiet revolution is taking place, one that could reshape how we map, measure, and navigate the world. Dr. Lyubka Pashova, a geodetic pioneer from the National Institute of Geophysics, Geodesy and Geography at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, has been leading the charge, delving into the intricate history and modern applications of geodetic reference systems and map projections in her country. Her work, recently published in the journal ‘Micro, Macro & Mezzo Geoinformation’—which translates to ‘Micro, Macro & Mezzo Geoinformation’—offers a compelling narrative that stretches from the late 19th century to today, with profound implications for industries like energy.
Pashova’s research traces Bulgaria’s geodetic journey, from the early days of Russian triangulation in the Walbeck 1875 system to the adoption of the Hayford ellipsoid and Baltic height system in the 1930s. “The evolution of geodetic systems in Bulgaria mirrors global trends, but with a unique local flavor,” Pashova explains. This local flavor includes the adoption of the Karsovski ellipsoid in the mid-20th century and the introduction of the 1970 coordinate system, a conic projection that, despite Bulgaria’s relatively small size, required four Lambert map zones.
The significance of this work extends far beyond academic curiosity. In the energy sector, for instance, accurate geodetic data is crucial for exploration, infrastructure development, and environmental monitoring. “Imagine trying to map an oil field or plan a wind farm without precise geodetic data,” Pashova says. “It would be like trying to navigate a ship in the dark.” The introduction of the Bulgarian Geodetic System 2005 (BGS 2005) and the Cadastral Coordinate System 2005 has provided the energy sector with the tools it needs to operate with unprecedented precision.
BGS 2005, introduced through a series of decrees and ordinances, includes three reference systems: the Coordinate System 2005, the Vertical Reference System 2005, and the Gravimetric Reference System IGSN71. These systems, based on the latest global and European standards, offer a level of accuracy that was once unimaginable. The primary cartographic projection for Bulgaria is now the Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) projection, divided into zones 34N and 35N, with the latter covering most of the country.
But the story doesn’t end there. Pashova’s research also highlights the importance of selecting the right map projection to minimize distortion. For large areas mapped on small scales, UTM and Lambert Conformal Conic projections are recommended. “It’s not just about accuracy,” Pashova notes. “It’s about ensuring that the data we use is fit for purpose.”
The implications for the energy sector are profound. With accurate geodetic data, energy companies can explore new areas with confidence, plan infrastructure with precision, and monitor environmental impacts with greater accuracy. Moreover, the use of modern geodetic systems can facilitate interoperability, allowing data to be shared seamlessly between different systems and stakeholders.
As we look to the future, Pashova’s work offers a roadmap for other countries looking to modernize their geodetic systems. “The key is to stay abreast of the latest developments in geodetic science and to ensure that our systems are regularly maintained and updated,” she advises. With the energy sector’s growing reliance on geospatial data, this advice is more relevant than ever.
In the end, Pashova’s research is a testament to the power of geodetic science. It’s a story of how accurate measurements and precise maps can shape our understanding of the world and drive progress in industries like energy. And as we navigate the challenges of the 21st century, it’s a story that reminds us of the importance of looking back, even as we move forward.