Sentinels for science: Potential of Sentinel-1, -2, and -3 missions for scientific observations of ocean, cryosphere, and land

► GMES Sentinel-1, -2, and -3 were assessed for ocean, cryosphere, and land science. ► Analysis indicates high potential of the Sentinels to satisfy observational needs. ► The first Sentinel for Science (SEN4SCI) scientific workshop took place in May 2011. ► More than 180 scientists fully supported scientific exploitation of the Sentinels.