The Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS) - Moving Towards a New Group on Earth Observations (GEO) ERA
- Paper number
IAC-05-B1.1.01
- Author
Dr. Ian Gibson, British National Space Centre, United Kingdom
- Coauthor
Mr. Mark Churchyard, British National Space Centre, United Kingdom
- Year
2005
- Abstract
The international stage for co-operation on Earth Observations is undergoing a fundamental change. The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is in the process of establishing a Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) implementation plan. This plan was recently adopted by ministers at the Earth Observation Summit III, and provides a framework for international co-operation and co-ordination for monitoring the Earth. CEOS, with 21 years of experience of providing a forum for space agencies and other national and international organisations, and currently with a membership numbering 43, has recognised the opportunity to play a strategic role in providing a ready made forum for the space component of GEO. The Director General of the British National Space Centre (BNSC) is the CEOS Chair for 2005 and is helping to further develop the CEOS role - to lead it into the new ‘GEO era’. Building upon the efforts of its predecessors, CEOS has been actively seeking to adapt and establish itself within the GEO framework to help guide the future of Earth Observation co-operation. At the CEOS Plenary in November 2004, a Task Force was set up to produce a report that examines and recommends how CEOS can adapt to these new challenges. The final recommendations will be presented for adoption at the UK CEOS Plenary in November 2005. Whilst GEO remains at the forefront of Earth Observation development the underpinning work of CEOS - especially that of its Working Groups - must continue. These Working Groups address fundamental issues identified as of international importance. The CEOS chairman is also co-chair of the Integrated Global Observing Strategy (IGOS) whose implementation of identified observing themes are expected to be of significant support to GEOSS. Through its chairmanship, the UK fully supports the activities of CEOS and believes that the future for Earth Observation is challenging - but that through the political impetus of GEO has renewed focus and bright future. The UK will continue to pursue, promote and support those activities of high priority, including those of Disaster Management, Humanitarian aid, Climate Change and Developing countries, during its year of office.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-05-B1.1.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
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