The overarching motivation for this session is the need for better understanding of in-situ measurements and satellite observations to quantify surface temperature (ST). The term "surface temperature" encompasses several distinct temperatures that differently characterize even a single place and time on Earth’s surface, as well as encompassing different domains of Earth’s surface (surface air, sea, land, lakes and ice). Different surface temperatures play inter-connected yet distinct roles in the Earth’s surface system, and are observed with different complementary techniques.

There is a clear need and appetite to improve the interaction of scientists across the in-situ/satellite 'divide' and across all domains of Earth's surface. This will accelerate progress in improving the quality of individual observations and the mutual exploitation of different observing systems over a range of applications.

This session invites contributions that emphasize sharing knowledge and make connections across different domains and sub-disciplines. They can include, but are not limited to, topics like:

* How to improve remote sensing of ST in different environments
* Challenges from changes of in-situ observing networks over time
* Current understanding of how different types of ST inter-­relate
* Nature of errors and uncertainties in ST observations
* Mutual/integrated quality control between satellite and in-situ observing systems.
* What do users of surface temperature data require in practical applications (like environmental or health sciences)?