A reading taken from a known instrument setup to map a specific topographical feature, property corner, or detail. Unlike traverse shots, side shots are dead ends in the survey network and are not used as a base for subsequent setups or to close a loop.
Take a side shot on that catch basin before we move the setup to the next control point.
Because side shots are not part of a closed loop, errors in taking them cannot be detected by a traverse misclosure check.
Do not mix it up with
- Foresight: A foresight is taken to establish a new control point, while a side shot only locates a feature and does not extend the traverse.
Related terms
Traverse table
A printed reference book used to look up the latitude and departure of a survey line based on its bearing and distance.
Occupy
To set up a surveying instrument precisely over a known control point.
Foresight
An instrument reading taken toward a new, unmeasured point to determine its elevation or position.