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Trimble launches ST30 smart target that adds GNSS to optical surveying

One pole-mounted target combines a 360° prism, tilt compensation, automatic rod height and an optional integrated GNSS rover.

BGol Newsroom Published · Announced 15 September 2026 · 1 min read · 2 sources cited
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At a glance

  • Announced 15 September 2026 (Trimble press release)
  • ST30 smart target for optical surveying, with optional integrated GNSS
  • Tilt compensation for optical and GNSS work; automatic rod height (±0.6 mm)
  • Orders through Trimble dealers from Q4 2026; GNSS subscription from 2027
  • Price: not stated in the sources

Trimble's press release is dated 15 September 2026. It introduces the ST30, a smart target for optical surveying that brings optical and GNSS measurement together in one unit [1][2]. Trimble describes it as the bridge between a surveyor's high-precision optical and GNSS workflows, so crews can move between sensors without swapping equipment [1]. The press release lists a 360-degree prism, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), a GNSS receiver and automatic rod height measurement in the one unit [2].

Key features

  • Tilt compensation: Trimble TIP tilt-compensated measurements for both optical and GNSS work, so the pole does not have to be levelled and awkward points are easier to reach [1].
  • Automatic rod height: the target syncs the rod height with the field software, with a stated accuracy of ±0.6 mm [1].
  • Tracking: active tracking, target ID and Trimble GeoLock GNSS-assisted recovery of a lost lock [1].
  • GNSS: an integrated receiver using the Trimble ProPoint engine, offered as an optional subscription [1].
  • Published tilt specifications: optical, horizontal TS + 2.5 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt and vertical TS + 1 mm + 0.1 mm/° tilt (TS being the total station's own accuracy); GNSS, RTK + 3 mm + 0.3 mm/° tilt [1].

Works with

Trimble lists its S-series robotic total stations for land surveying and its SPS-series robotic total stations for civil construction, together with Trimble Access and Siteworks field software, Trimble Business Center, and Trimble Connect [1].

Availability

According to the press release, orders open through Trimble's dealer network in the fourth quarter of 2026, and integrated GNSS will be a separate subscription starting in 2027 [2]. Neither source gives a price.

What it means for surveyors

Many jobs, such as topographic survey, stakeout and cadastral work, mix total-station and GNSS measurements. A single target that handles tilt and rod height may cut set-up changes and rod-height mistakes, but real gains will depend on the job and need testing. Ask your local Trimble dealer about availability and pricing in your region.

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