HR: 14:10h
AN: U13B-02 INVITED     [Abstracts]
TI: Elements of a Successful Climate Data Records Generation Program
AU: * Robinson, D A
EM: drobins@rci.rutgers.edu
AF: Rutgers University, Department of Geography 54 Joyce Kilmer Avenue, Piscataway, NJ 08854 United States
AB: For the past four decades, data flowing from satellite-borne sensors have provided environmental information at spatial scales only dreamed of previously. Remarkable insights have been gained regarding Earth's land, atmosphere, oceans and cryosphere systems. This includes their internal dynamics and kinematics, along with important interrelationships. Additionally, time series of elements within these systems have been scrutinized in attempts to better understand climate variability and to identify critical trends that may signal changes in the climate system. From these studies, has emerged a growing appreciation for the importance of satellite climate data records (CDRs) that possess the accuracy, longevity and stability to facilitate credible climate monitoring. These satellite CDRs provide abundant information to assist those making decisions regarding the fate of our environment. Recently, a National Research Council committee was tasked with assisting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as it designs a plan to establish this agency as the chief steward of satellite CDRs. Based on an evaluation of historical lessons learned, community surveys, a workshop, and committee expertise, the committee identified 14 key elements for creating a CDR program based mainly on satellites. They are divided into three general categories that include organizational, generation and sustaining elements, many of which are applicable to any CDR endeavor. This presentation will address the 14 elements and provide examples of candidate satellite CDRs.
DE: 1616 Climate variability (1635, 3305, 3309, 4215, 4513)
DE: 3315 Data assimilation
DE: 3360 Remote sensing
SC: Union [U]
MN: Fall Meeting 2005