A global GNSS climate data record from 5085 stations spanning up to 22 years

Abstract

This work presents a comprehensive global GNSS climate data record derived from 5085 stations, spanning up to a 22-year period 2000-2021. The dataset was generated using the state-of-The-Art processing methodologies and precise products from the International GNSS Service (IGS) Repro-3 initiative. It includes high-quality hourly estimates of Zenith Total Delay (ZTD) and Precipitable Water Vapour (PWV), offering improved accuracy and spatiotemporal coverage. A rigorous data screening and quality assessment framework was implemented, including formal error detection, offset identification, and extensive cross-validation with ERA5 reanalysis dataset, radiosonde profiles, and Very Long Baseline Interferometry measurements. Collectively, these efforts ensured the consistency, accuracy, and homogeneity of the dataset. In addition, diurnal, monthly, and annual variations in ZTD and PWV have been analysed to evaluate and demonstrate its feasibility for monitoring climate variability, atmospheric circulation, and weather extremes. The insights provided by the dataset address critical data gaps in global climate observing systems and provide a robust foundation for advancing climate research and applications. Representing a significant milestone in GNSS climatology, this dataset serves as a vital resource for the scientific community, supporting improved understanding of atmospheric processes and more effective responses to climate-related challenges. The generated dataset is now available at: 10.1594/PANGAEA.982476 (Wang et al., 2025a) and https://www.gnss.studio/Login (Wang et al., 2025b).