From sextants to satellites: where on earth am i?

Description

Join Chris Rawlinson as he traces the development of instruments and other technologies used to determine our location on the earth’s surface, both on land and at sea.

He will examine how this is interwoven with our understanding of the geometry and motion of the cosmos and how that has progressed from ancient times until today. Hear key advances described and how they have combined to deliver unparalleled speed, accuracy and ease of location fixing, especially in the last few decades. The lecture will finish with a summary of the science and technology behind the ‘blue dot’ you now commonly see defining your accurate location in maps on your smart phone.

Chris Rawlinson

Chris has an Honours degree in Geography from the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, a Master’s degree in Photogrammetry and Surveying from University College London and a Graduate Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) from Flinders University. He has worked as a geography teacher in Papua New Guinea, as a geodetic surveyor in the Middle East and as a spatial information strategist in South Australia.

Gold coin donation for members
$10 for non-members

Please note this lecture is on Wednesday.

FAQs

How do I get to the State Library by public transport?

The 'State Library, Art Gallery, Museum' tram-stop is just outside the State Library. There are bus stops close by, near the War Memorial on North Terrace. The closest train station is the Adelaide city station on North Terrace.

You can plan your journey via Adelaide Metro.

Is there car parking near the State Library?

The nearest car park is Wilson's Adelaide Central car park, 225 North Terrace, next to David Jones.

There is paid (metered) street parking along Kintore Ave and Victoria Drive.

Where is the wheelchair and stroller access?

Access to the Spence Wing first floor and the Mortlock Chamber is via the lift in the glass foyer entrance of the library.

There is on-street disabled parking available on the nearby roads. View more information and maps of Adelaide City Council's Disability parking for permit holders.

How do I check if the Mortlock Chamber is open when I plan to visit?

The Mortlock Chamber may close for private events, check our opening hours for any closure times.

When it is open you can visit the Mortlock Chamber on the ground floor to look at the exhibition bays.  The upper levels of the Mortlock Wing include quiet study areas.

Is there a cafe at the State Library?

Yes, the State Library Cafe is open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm and Saturdays from 12 to 4pm.

Find out more about the cafe and resident organisations at the State Library.