A Road Map to Success of International Field Campaigns in Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences

Abstract

Understanding and predicting Earth's environment requires information and knowledge of detailed physical, chemical, and biological processes directly from observations. Well-organized and properly conducted field campaigns are powerful ways to make such observations. Major international field campaigns with participation from multiple countries bring together expertise and resources to address complex scientific issues that are difficult or impossible to be tackled by a few scientists in a single nation. This article describes the essential elements of international field campaigns, the necessary steps of planning and execution that need to be taken for their success, and other considerations that make international field campaigns successful. The intention of this article is to encourage early career professionals to participate in and learn to organize field campaigns in this exciting time of rapidly evolving technological observing capabilities and increasing efforts to seek global diversity, equity, and inclusion in science.