Earth Observation satellites can make accurate, continuous measurements of the Earth's atmosphere, oceans, ice sheets, land surface and interior. They can detect gradual environmental changes on a global scale and have helped increase our knowledge of planet Earth as an interacting, complex system. Earth Observation data have highlighted humankind's detrimental effects on the natural environment such as atmospheric pollution, deforestation, rising surface temperatures and melting sea ice and glaciers. Satellite observations are vital for services such as weather forecasting, national security and defence.
The global nature of Earth observation satellites means it is essential for close national and international co-operation at government level and clear communication with the scientific community and industry.
The Earth Observation Strategy 2003 - 2006 recognises these facts and looks at how the UK can maintain its excellence in environmental science and continue to develop new technologies and services. Read the full Earth Observation Programme Board Strategy 2003-2006 [PDF link. Opens in new window].
Organisations within the BNSC partnership which have a strong interest in Earth Observation are: the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (DTI), the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), the Met Office, the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Ministry of Defency (MoD).
NERC manages the UK's contribution to the European Space Agency's Earth Observation programmes, around £42 million a year, and has a national Earth Observation budget of around £6-7 million a year. It is responsible for developing new techniques for exploiting Earth Observation data, new satellite instruments and for training Earth Observation specialists. NERC maintains its own Earth Observation Strategy.
