Advancing Earth observation from space: A global challenge

Global Earth observation goes well beyond taking pictures of the Earth from space. Earth observation aims to identify and characterize planetary-scale processes that occur in the Earth interior or the world's oceans, at the Earth's surface or within the global atmosphere, on the basis of weak signals that may be detected in space. This is a truly challenging task that requires the dedicated efforts of professionals and firm public support commitments. The article reveals the scope of global Earth observation, highlights the technical and managerial challenges involved in undertaking it and discusses ways of making it more effective. Competent international cooperation and cost-sharing arrangements are essential for the ultimate success of existing and future activities in this field.