The Role of Science and Technology in GEOSS

The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) vision for the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) is to "realize a future wherein decisions and actions for the comprehensive monitoring of the Earth, increase the understanding of Earth's changing environment and global integrated Earth system processes, and enhance the prediction of the Earth system's behavior - in a fast changing environment." (12)(1) Achieving initial capabilities for GEOSS is within the state of the art. Further enhancements for developing quality information for decision makers depend on advances in science, technology, and research. GEOSS will itself be a driver for such advances. There are many examples that illustrate how Earth observations have been used to better life. The paper will describe the role of science and technology in advancing the GEOSS through the GEO work plan. It will show how the IEEE is participating in GEOSS and it will present examples of how science and technology are working toward accomplishing its objectives.