Dear readers,

Surveying has always been at the core of our innovation. We understand the daily challenges surveyors face, and we are committed to addressing them.

Today, geospatial data is used in more industries than ever, and our portfolio has grown to meet these needs. In this issue of Reporter magazine, we look at the principles of surveying that remain essential for every geodata-driven field: At its core is an appreciation for accuracy and precision along with the assurance that every measurement and data point provides a reliable foundation for your projects and decisions.

Burkhard Böckem, Chief Technology Officer at Hexagon and Hexagon Geosystems division, delves deeper into how surveying has become the backbone of geodata-dependent industries: Surveyors play a critical role in ensuring the quality of geospatial data at scale, because insights are only as reliable as the data they’re built on.

The importance of surveying is also brought to life in our feature on the Rogfast tunnel in Norway. Building the world’s longest and deepest subsea road tunnel is a truly unique engineering challenge. And if you want to ensure two drilling teams meet in the middle of a 26.7-kilometre tunnel 392 metres below sea level, surveying expertise and the right equipment is fundamental.

Geospatial data is also transforming the construction sector. As highlighted in Brad Mullis and Rune Lodall’s article, safety technologies like the Leica Xsight360 rely on precise geospatial data to prevent accidents and improve workflows. These innovations demonstrate how surveying’s staple qualities extend beyond traditional applications to enhance safety, reduce downtime, and enhance productivity on dynamic worksites.

For more than a century, we’ve been harnessing emerging technologies and put them to work for surveyors. And we’ve done it again. This time, we’re taking one of the profession’s central tools to a completely new level: the new Leica TS20 robotic total station is designed to deliver unmatched reliability and efficiency, even in the most challenging conditions. With advanced automation powered by edge AI, cloud connectivity, enhanced weather-proofing, and anti-theft security features, the TS20 help surveyors meet today’s challenges more effectively and get ready for the demands of tomorrow. You will not want to miss Hans Martin Zogg’s article on how our latest innovation ushers in the new era of robotic total stations.

As we look ahead, the role of surveying will only grow in importance. From enabling precision engineering to driving sustainable development, surveyors are the unsung heroes behind some of the world’s most ambitious projects. We remain committed to providing geospatial professionals with the tools, technologies, and innovations they need to succeed. Thank you for joining us in this issue as we explore the past, present, and future of surveying and the diverse industries that rely on their expertise.

Enjoy the read!

Henning Sandfort President at Hexagon’s Geosystems division and CEO of Leica Geosystems