The contributions of the International Gravimetric Commission (IGC) to global surface-gravity determinations

The role of the IGC in the development of global terrestrial and marine gravity can be illustrated by two examples: the International Gravity Standardization Net 1971 (IGSN 71) and the Gravity Survey of the Mediterranean Sea. In both cases, the IGC organization and the international cooperation, with the open minded spirit of the participating scientists were at the basis of its success. Some results, with important theoretical and practical consequences, are briefly outlined.