GCOS Implementation Plan - WMO
GCOS Implementation Plan - WMO
GCOS Implementation Plan - WMO
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<strong>Implementation</strong> <strong>Plan</strong> for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of the UNFCCC<br />
(2010 Update)<br />
Spaceborne scatterometer and passive microwave radiometer data have been demonstrated to be<br />
invaluable sources for wind field information over the ocean, especially when coupled with the in situ<br />
observations in an integrated analysis product. Systematic and sustained deployment of a twoscatterometer<br />
constellation or equivalent wind-measuring systems is a key requirement.<br />
Scatterometers in particular provide large coverage and a spatial resolution of wind speed and<br />
direction that matches the scales of ocean variability. The CEOS Ocean Surface Vector Wind<br />
Constellation is working towards coordinated space agency action in this area.<br />
Action A11 66 [IP-04 A11]<br />
Action: Ensure continuous generation of wind-related products from AM and PM satellite<br />
scatterometers or equivalent observations.<br />
Who: Space agencies.<br />
Time-Frame: Continuous.<br />
Performance Indicator: Long-term satellite observations of surface winds every six hours.<br />
Annual Cost Implications: 1-10M US$ (Mainly by Annex-I Parties).<br />
ECV – Water Vapour<br />
Water vapour (humidity) measurements are obtained from the WWW/GOS surface synoptic observing<br />
networks over land. Over the oceans, the observations from VOS, including the higher-quality<br />
VOSClim, the Tropical Mooring Network, and the Reference Buoy Network provide a sparse but vital<br />
data resource. Homogeneous data are essential for assessment of the impact of changes of surface<br />
water vapour on natural and human systems. Surface water vapour data has begun to be studied in a<br />
global climate context and initial results are encouraging. Continued efforts to provide historical data<br />
to the <strong>GCOS</strong> analysis and archive centres are needed.<br />
Action A12 [IP-04 A12]<br />
Action: Submit water vapour data from national networks to the International Data Centres.<br />
Who: National Meteorological Services, through <strong>WMO</strong> CBS and International Data Centres, with<br />
input from AOPC.<br />
Time-Frame: Continuing.<br />
Performance Indicator: Data availability in analysis centres and archive, and scientific reports on<br />
the use of these data.<br />
Annual Cost Implications: