Global land observing system

Abstract

Land has a wide variety of natural features, slopes, vegetation, and soils that affect water budgets, carbon fluxes, and the reflective properties of the surface. To be able to observe the properties of the land surface, both in situ and remote sensing tools are needed. There are three ways to observe the state of the land surface through remote sensing, in the optical, thermal, and microwave frequencies. We briefly review the most important land applications in these domains. We conclude that foundations exist for both the in situ observation networks and space-based observing components, but that continuity of missions and validation still need to be strengthened. Improvements in understanding of the terrestrial components of the climate system, the causes and response of this system to change, and consequences in terms of impact and adaptation are vital to society.