The geodetic products that describe the system Earth are of high quality. However, there are limiting factors that need to be detected, analyzed, quantified, and possible improvements need to be investigated. In this context, the usage of selected observations only, degrading station equipment quality, limitations in the observing concepts, limitations in the analysis and combination methods evoke the question whether and how the derived Earth system products can be improved. Most of these questions can be answered only by carrying out simulation studies.

This session provides a platform for presentations of various simulation studies that seek to improve the observation and the determination of Earth system parameters. We welcome papers that describe simulations investigating the impact of extending the ground networks and space segment to better determine geodetic and geodynamic parameters (e.g., station coordinates and velocities, Earth rotation parameters, satellite orbits, geocenter, scale, gravity field, sea level). The Terrestrial Reference Frame (TRF) being the foundation of all Earth observations, we also seek papers that simulate space geodetic observations such as Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR), Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) and Doppler Orbitography and Radiopositioning Integrated by Satellite (DORIS) with a view of better understanding systematic sources of error. In addition, we welcome papers that describe simulations that either follow contemporary approaches (e.g., combination by applying local ties) or focus on alternative concepts such as co-location in space, clock ties, time transfer by laser link, and atmospheric ties to improve the TRF. For this session we also seek to stimulate presentations of novel observation concepts such as VLBI satellite tracking, inclusion of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, use of ultra-precise clocks (chronometric geodesy), and inter-satellite links to be used for determining the Earth system parameters including gravity field, geocenter and Earth orientation. Simulation studies focused on developing new satellites or measurement concepts are also welcome to contribute to this session. Furthermore, the session is also open for contributions based on the analysis of real data in order to support and confirm the simulation results.

Many of the aspects mentioned are brought together within the Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) standing committee PLATO (Performance Simulations and Architectural Trade-Offs). Therefore, contributions related to the activities carried out within the PLATO group are also highly appreciated.