One of the main issues raised in the discussion about ground segment requirements was the potential cooperation with the JDIMP. [Editor note: This panel is now jointly sponsored by the three global observing systems.] The panel considered the important role it has relating to the generation of basic data by the space agencies, and in the coordination of data dissemination activities. The panel saw its role as complementary and non-overlapping with work of the JDIMP.
The panel discussed its role regarding developing countries. It considered that the guidelines already established by the JDIMP could form the basis for an approach to benefit developing countries, but that the Space Plan should elaborate it further. A first step would be to find ways to frame its recommendations to the space agencies for implementation. It was recommended that the space panel and the JDIMP find effective mechanisms for working together on developing country data and product issues.
Panellists remarked that archiving, processing, and other data activities related to long-term monitoring should be established as routine processes, but at present they are seriously neglected by many of the responsible agencies and laboratories. One of the major problems will be to obtain commitments from agencies to provide data and products reliably to meet the needs of the observing systems and their user communities.
