Earth Observation Data

摘要

Without information we live blindly. Without information there is no planning, no understanding, no action taking, no communication.... Information is what makes the world go round. Although Earth Observation (EO) satellites are being launched at breakneck speed, there are impediments to the use of all the peta bytes (mega x giga) of data generated by these sensors. Yet EO data waiting eagerly to be used for the benefit of the planet and all that populates it too often languishes covered by a thick layer of dust in some obscure archive. EO data neglect does not occur from any lack of appreciation as to its value in terms of understanding earth-related processes and thus aiding appropriate action. Rather, data remains untouched because of barriers to its use, especially in developing countries.