Public Content

G6.03  Lack of dedicated funding for targeted observations to coincide with satellite overpass

Gap detailed description

Many high-quality observational assets do not operate 24/7. For some instruments there are geophysical limitations as to when measurements can be undertaken e.g. an FTIR requires direct line of sight to the sun. But for many others it is for financial or logistical reasons that measurements are solely episodic. For example, radiosonde launches tend to be twice-daily or at best four times daily. Similarly, lidar operations may be made only when staff are available. Because funding for these observations typically is not concerned with satellite characterisation the sampling strategy is sub-optimal for satellite characterisation.

Activities within GAIA-CLIM related to this gap

None.

Gap Remedy(s)

Funding mechanisms need to be assured that optimise the observational scheduling for satellite characterisation if the full utility of these measures is to be realised.

Specific remedy proposed:

Space agencies to work with relevant observational networks to support targeted observations to maximise their utility for satellite characterisation through targeted support for observations concentrating upon the highest-quality observational assets.

Measurable outcome of success:          

Increased number of high-quality non-satellite data co-locations with satellite measurements on a sustained basis

Technological viability:           

High

Indicative cost estimate:       

High (>5 million) globally but likely medium or low nationally

Relevance:                           

Increasing the number of co-locations available would improve the ability to undertake robust satellite characterisation.

Time bounds:                       

Long term, at least five to ten years. Sustained

Gap Risks to Non-Resolution

G6.02    Geographically dispersed observational assets reduce their utility for satellite Cal/Val

Gap detailed description

Related to G6.01 but also several gaps in the underlying work packages, a result of the fractured governance of observational networks is that instruments are very frequently not co-located. That is to say that an FTIR may belong to network X and be located 100km distance from a suite of complimentary observations belonging to network Y. Because the measurements are geographically dispersed this serves to reduce their value for numerous applications including, but not limited to, satellite characterisation.

Activities within GAIA-CLIM related to this gap

There are no specific activities within GAIA-CLIM that directly adress this gap.

Gap remedy(s)

The most obvious remedy is to rationalise on national / regional levels observational assets to ensure maximum scientific value. This rationalisation needs to account for both measurement heritage and the range of observational application areas.

Specific remedy proposed

National and / or regional assessments of high qualtiy observational assets leading to reviews of strategies which may lead to consolidation of facilities where a clear benefit to multiple data stakeholders is identified.

Measurable outcome of success

Evidence of more strategic decision-making and long-term planning in research infrastructure investments.

Achievable outcomes

Technological / organizational viability: High

Indicative cost estimate: High (> 5 million) globally but likely medium or low nationally.

Relevance

Increasing the utility of high-quality measurements would benefit multiple application areas.

Timebound

Long term, at least five to ten years.

Gap risks to non-resolution