Recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to the various space-based observational activities for the global observing systems, the JSTC of GCOS, the Joint Scientific and Technical Committee for GOOS (J-GOOS), and the Steering Committee (SC) for GTOS have established a Global Observing Systems Space Panel (GOSSP).
Terms of Reference:
Based on guidance from the JSTC, J-GOOS, and the SC, the primary tasks of the Panel are:
To maintain and further develop the plan for the space-based observation components of the global observing systems considering the requirements from the scientific panels;
To develop, integrate, and promote the space-based observational requirements of the user communities carrying out global studies and providing related advice and services;
To recommend to the space agencies how these requirements may be met (e.g., through such bodies as the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites or the Coordination Group on Meteorological Satellites);
To facilitate the participation of the global observing communities, in particular in developing countries, through regional activities;
To identify and evaluate problems, and advocate solutions;
To report regularly to the JSTC, GOOS, and GTOS SC.
The GOSSP will be the focus for exploiting space systems in meeting the objectives of the global observing systems. The Panel must continually refine, update, and interpret the implications of the requirements of the user communities carrying out global studies, and provide related advice in terms of space instruments and satellite payloads flown by the data providing agencies.
Chairman: Mr. John Morgan
Last Meeting: 16-18 October 1996, in Geneva, Switzerland
