GEO In-Situ Data Strategy: understanding and reducing the barriers to re-use of Earth observation data and knowledge

In-situ data are part of a complementary suite of Earth observations that are vital for monitoring and understanding our planetary system. In contrast to space-based observations, in-situ data are usually direct, ground-based measurements made in specific and often fixed locations. As such, in-situ measurements are likely to be more precise and are widely considered the “ground truth”.

While satellite-based observing systems provide larger-scale systematic coverage of the Earth’s surface, in-situ data is derived from a diverse range of sources that include observing networks, individual sensors, and even citizen scientists, resulting in a highly heterogeneous data landscape. The diverse nature of in-situ data necessitates a considerable investment of resources in its curation and archiving to ensure its usability and accuracy for specific user applications. It also demands significant data management efforts in terms of standardization, harmonization, and interoperability to effectively consolidate different datasets to fulfill the needs of users.

In an effort to address this highly varied landscape of ground-based observations, the Group on Earth Observations (GEO) is launching its In-Situ Data Strategy. The key objectives being to better understand the in-situ data landscape, including identifying and addressing the barriers to making in-situ data open and accessible for wider reuse. This strategy also aims to foster coordination and sustainability of existing observing networks across different geographical areas and domains, which includes identifying critical gaps in these observing systems and advocating for the development of new monitoring networks where necessary.

The GEO In-Situ Data Strategy emphasizes the need for collaboration on a global scale alongside the adoption of common approaches, standards, and best practices for data management, which are essential for integration, interoperability, and reuse of in-situ data. Through its In-situ Data Strategy, GEO aims to foster a coordinated approach to in-situ data management that makes the data open and accessible with the ultimate goal of delivering “Earth Intelligence for All”

This work has been supported by the GEO-IDEA project funded by the European Environmental Agency (EEA)