IAG history: The years of world wars and aftermath (1917–1959)

Abstract

In the frame of the celebration of the 150th birthday of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG), this contribution is devoted to the period 1917–1959, starting at the move of the IAG Central Bureau from Potsdam to Paris, up to the occurrence of space technology. Among important aspects, the evolution of international cooperation is presented, with crucial geopolitical aspects (mostly around World Wars I and II) as well as drastic technological innovations. A particular important issue is the creation of the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG) and the inclusion of IAG. The evolution of the IAG structure and organization is presented, as well as its links with other scientific entities.