Whether you have a Nikon total station or a device that's made by a different brand, there are a number of different applications in which you might use one of these devices. Here are some examples of common applications for TS units:
Construction - Since construction is increasingly dependent on building information modeling (BIM), using accurate surveying information from total stations is highly important in this industry. The use of TS units in construction substantially decreases labor costs.
Mining - A mining company may use a Nikon total station or a total station made by a different brand to determine the absolute locations of tunnel ceilings, walls, and floors. This information is then processed by CAD programs, which assists mining companies in designing the layout of tunnels.
Meteorology - Total stations are also used in meteorology to track the locations of weather balloons. These devices make it easier to determine the movements of weather balloons in upper-level winds. Total stations may also be used in aviation weather forecasting applications, and they can be used to determine the height of cloud layers. Lastly, meteorologists may also use total stations to determine forecasts for rocket launches.