What type of survey takes into account the curvature of the Earth?

Geodetic surveys are designed to take into account the curvature of the Earth, which is essential for accurately measuring large areas or distances that span significant portions of the Earth's surface. This type of survey uses advanced mathematical techniques and models of the Earth’s ellipsoidal shape to ensure high precision in measurements, often necessary for large-scale mapping, boundary determinations, and engineering projects that require a detailed understanding of the globe's shape and gravitational variations.

In contrast, photogrammetric surveys rely on photos taken from aerial or satellite sources to create maps or 3D models without accounting for the Earth's curvature in detail. Plane surveys operate under the assumption that the Earth is flat over relatively small areas, which is sufficient for local projects but can introduce errors over larger distances. Zoned surveys typically categorize land for specific uses but do not directly relate to the geodetic measurements required to account for Earth's curvature. Therefore, geodetic surveys are unique in their requirement to consider the Earth’s curvature fundamentally.