The Global Geodetic Observing System (GGOS) of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG) collaborates with IAG components and other entities to provide precise, consistent and long-term observations of the Earth's shape, rotation and gravity field, and to maintain global reference frames. In line with the essential variables that are already operational in the climate and ocean domains, GGOS has introduced the Essential Geodetic Variables (EGVs) framework. This framework identifies and characterizes the geodetic observations and products that are fundamental to monitoring and understanding changes in the Earth system. It also supports a wide range of scientific and societal applications on Earth and in space.
Advancing the implementation of the EGVs requires their systematic identification and classification, together with assessments of their availability, quality and performance against user. It also requires sustainable observing infrastructure, reliable data and product supply chains, adequate human resources, and effective access to geodetic data and products in accordance with FAIR principles.
This session welcomes contributions across the full EGV value chain, ranging from the definition and nature of EGV and their user requirements to observing techniques and infrastructure, data processing and product generation, assessments of availability, quality and performance, sustainable supply chains and human resources, and FAIR access to essential geodetic data and products.