The state of the art of gravimetry in Italy

Abstract

Relative and absolute gravimetric measurements are carried out for metrological, geodetic and geophysical (structural and dynamic) studies. Gravimetry is largely used in Italy since long time for vast set of studies. Both relative and absolute measurements are carried out in several fields of geodesy, geophysics and geodynamic with different approaches. After a brief historical excursus, the paper presents the State of the Art of “Modern” Gravimetry in Italy in its various applications, together the main available results and products, with particular attention to: - Development of modern gravimetry in Italy: from relative to absolute measurements. - Italian Reference Gravity Networks: state of the art - The Italian gravimetric map: its evolution over time, data, the present-day status and related products. - Dynamic gravimetry: examples of applications in geodynamical areas. Finally, suggestions for future perspectives for gravimetry in Italy are outlined.