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“Thanks to MERIT, I can contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine,” says Alina Khoptar, one of MERIT fellows.

Alina Khoptar, a recipient of the prestigious MERIT fellowship awarded in the program’s first call, has been pursuing a 30-month research project since March 2024 at the Research Institute of Geodesy, Topography, and Cartography. We spoke with Alina to learn more about her research, the impact of her work, and how she evaluates her experience as a MERIT fellow.

You studied geodesy at the National University of Lviv Polytechnic. What does a geodesist do?

Geodesy is a field focused on measuring the Earth’s surface, processing the results, and representing them on maps and plans. It involves setting out construction projects in the field, documenting the actual implementation of structures, and conducting control measurements to ensure their stability. Geodesy serves as the foundation for many areas, such as cartography, navigation, transportation, land cadastre, construction, and even tax calculations. I specialize in engineering geodesy, which involves gathering data crucial for various engineering and construction processes. This data is essential for planning, designing, and constructing new buildings and large infrastructure projects like highway systems or railway corridors.

What does that specifically involve?

Before construction begins, a geodesist determines the exact location of the building on the site. Based on project documentation, we establish the key points, axes, and boundaries of the construction site. During construction, we monitor any changes in position and shape of the structures with great precision, which is crucial for the stability and safety of the buildings. Additionally, we ensure that all measurements and layouts comply with standards and legal regulations.

Six months ago, you received a fellowship at the Research Institute of Geodesy, Topography, and Cartography (VÚGTK) through the MERIT program, which brings top researchers from around the world to the Central Bohemian Region. What is the focus of the project you are currently working on at VÚGTK?

The goal of my project is to enhance the accuracy of length measurements for surveying purposes by utilizing the national length standard (the Koštice geodetic base near the Central Bohemian Region). I am working on developing innovative technology to transfer this length standard to the Javoriv geodetic base in Ukraine.

I frequently work at the standard site because my research primarily takes place in the field, while at the institute, I analyze and visualize the measured data. Imagine the base as 12 physical pillars arranged in a straight line in the landscape. These pillars are firmly anchored in the ground at specific and increasing intervals. We geodesists measure the segment lengths between them, ranging from 25 to 1,450 meters. Typically, the longer the distance, the greater the measurement deviations.

The national standard in Koštice ensures the metrological traceability of electronic distance meters, meaning it complies with the requirements of the Metrology Act and European standards, which specify how measuring instruments should be used in practice.

Why is it necessary to measure segment lengths when the meter is an internationally defined unit?

While the meter is indeed an internationally defined unit, that definition is theoretical. All length standards worldwide should theoretically provide the same measurement value, but in practice, slight differences can occur. These differences arise from deviations in measuring instruments and factors that influence measurements at a particular location. These can include ground movement where the pillars of the standard are anchored, human measurement errors, or atmospheric conditions that affect the performance of our high-frequency laser devices.

The national standard in Koštice defines lengths with precision down to fractions of a millimeter, sets the measurement methods, and calibrates measuring instruments. Through continuous re-measurement and data collection in the field, we improve the capabilities of measuring instruments, which has a direct impact on the geometric accuracy of structures, making them more stable and safer.

Why are you working to transfer the length standard from the Czech Republic to Ukraine?

Geodesy in the Czech Republic follows European Union standards. There are many technical norms in the Czech Republic that define the geometric accuracy of structures and allowable deviations in surveying activities, all of which are harmonized with EU standards. However, Ukrainian norms are not yet aligned with the EU, which is currently very relevant since the EU is committed to supporting Ukraine’s reconstruction. My country has been a war zone for over two and a half years, with a vast number of destroyed or damaged buildings and structures that will need to be rebuilt or reconstructed. I want to help my country with the expertise I have.

My research project is also part of an international comparative measurement effort between VÚGTK and the National University of Lviv Polytechnic, where I conducted postdoctoral research. The goal of this international collaboration is to establish the values of length segments at the Javoriv base with the highest possible accuracy, following the model of Koštice in the Czech Republic, and to develop technologies that will enable reliable measurements during the reconstruction of my homeland.

How do you evaluate the MERIT program after six months at VÚGTK?

I am very happy because VÚGTK is the ideal place for me. Geodesy here is at a global level. I have access to modern technologies, and there is a high concentration of expertise in the field. Like other fellows in the MERIT program, I have a mentor who provides me with excellent professional feedback, guiding my research towards even better results. Ing. Jiří Lechner, CSc., co-developed the unique HYNI measuring technology, which monitors the stability of a turbogenerator at the Temelín Nuclear Power Plant, as well as a pedestrian bridge over the Labe River in Hradec Králové. Jiří Lechner is also responsible for the state standard mentioned earlier. Learning from such an expert is an extraordinary opportunity for me. At the same time, I am grateful that my other colleagues have welcomed me warmly. Thanks to the MERIT program, I am improving my scientific and research skills, gaining new practical experience, and growing personally. You know, the Czech Republic is my second home—my parents have lived here for over twenty years, and I visited them often. When war broke out in my homeland, I considered how I could help the most, and I feel that, thanks to MERIT, I have found a great way to do so.

What have you achieved so far within the MERIT program?

I successfully conducted theoretical research on the length unit and identified key factors that affect measurement accuracy in the field. I have also started laboratory research. I have already presented the first results at the Prague Science Fair. I am excited to soon meet dozens of talented colleagues that MERIT has brought together for research in strategic innovation areas in the Central Bohemian Region. I am delighted to be part of this community of excellent researchers from four continents.

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