CST Level 1 Land Surveyor Certification Practice

In surveying, the term "alidade" refers specifically to a sighting device that is used to determine direction. It is an essential component of certain types of surveying instruments, such as theodolites and plane tables. The alidade consists of a straightedge or a line of sight that helps surveyors align their instruments accurately with physical landmarks or points of interest on the ground. By establishing a line of sight to a target, surveyors can calculate angles and distances, facilitating the precise location of points in the field.

The use of an alidade is vital for ensuring accuracy in measurements and in establishing true north and bearings, which are crucial for map-making and land assessment tasks. Its functionality in aiming and sighting makes it a significant tool in the practice of surveying, particularly when laying out or plotting land.