ESSC Unveils New Brochure: Earth Observation: Groundbreaking Discoveries
21st January 2015
The European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC) is delighted to announce the release of its latest publication, Earth Observation: Groundbreaking Discoveries. This inspiring brochure, the result of a collaborative effort led by the ESSC Earth Sciences Panel, working with the European Science Foundation (ESF), the European Space Agency (ESA) and professional graphics designers, explores how Earth observation satellites have transformed our understanding of the planet whilst addressing some of the greatest challenges of our time.
The brochure highlights this initiative by showcasing a range of ESA missions, including the science-focused Earth Explorers and the European Union’s Copernicus Sentinel programme, for which ESA manages the space segment. It also mentions some nationally funded collaborative European Earth Observation missions with NASA, such as the CNES-led TOPEX/Poseidon and Jason projects.
Earth Observation: Groundbreaking Discoveries provides an accessible, yet comprehensive overview of groundbreaking insights derived from ESA and European Union Sentinel satellite data. Some of the topics highlighted include:
- The Arctic’s dramatic response to climate change, illuminated by ESA’s CryoSat-2, Sentinel-1, and SMOS satellites.
- Advanced forest monitoring, revealing global carbon cycles and powered by Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2.
- The dynamics of Earth’s shifting magnetic field and its impact on satellite navigation, studied using the Swarm mission.
- New perspectives on the water cycle, enabling precise monitoring of droughts, floods, and human interventions through ESA’s SMOS, Sentinel-1, and other missions.
- How ESA Aeolus data significantly enhanced the accuracy of weather forecasts by providing critical wind data, particularly in regions where observations were sparse or unavailable, such as over the tropics, oceans, and polar areas.
This publication bridges the gap between scientific exploration and its practical applications, presenting the stories behind the data that shape our collective future.
Professor Chris Rapley, chair of the European Space Sciences Committee (ESSC), said: “At the dawn of the space age, it was clear that observations from polar-orbiting satellites had the potential to revolutionise our understanding of the Earth. The idea was likened to unlocking an Aladdin’s cave, unveiling a treasure trove of scientific discoveries. This vision has been realised, with major advances attributable to the pioneering and sustained decisions made by ESA and its Member States. Today, Europe leads the field, with a remarkable legacy of groundbreaking scientific achievements. The brochure showcases 12 of the most brilliant examples of this progress. As climate change and its impacts intensify, it emphasises the urgent need to act decisively, building on our robust foundation of scientific and technical innovation and ensuring the continued – and ideally enhanced – support for the ESA Earth Observation programme”.
At the core of these discoveries is the extraordinary contribution of the European Space Agency. ESA’s fleet of satellites has been instrumental in expanding our understanding of Earth’s complex systems, providing the high-resolution data essential for cutting-edge research and actionable insights. The brochure highlights this effort by showcasing numerous ESA missions, including the science-driven Earth Explorers and the European Union Copernicus Sentinel mission for which ESA is responsible of the space segment. Some national European EO missions in collaboration with NASA are also mentioned (e.g. CNES TOPEX-Posseidon and Jason). These missions exemplify ESA’s commitment to advancing the frontiers of Earth science and ensuring this knowledge benefits society at large.
Dr. Maurice Borgeaud, chair of the Earth Sciences Panel of the ESSC and responsible for the preparation of the document added: “Central to the objective of this brochure was to ‘translate’ complex scientific publications into accessible language, complemented by impactful visuals created through collaboration between scientists and professional graphic designers. While the Sentinel missions of Copernicus remain the primary source of Earth observation data, ESA’s Earth Explorers play a crucial role in boosting scientific understanding and demonstrating innovative science and technology, paving the way for the expansion of future Sentinel satellites and EO European national missions. As critical decisions are about to be taken with respect to the future of this domain in Europe, it is essential to remember the importance of these advances and the need to sustain progress in this vital field”.
A Call to Action
Earth observation is not just about understanding our planet—it is about taking meaningful action. From informing policies to mitigating risks, the insights gained through ESA’s satellite missions are helping us face the challenges of the present and build a more sustainable future.
The ESSC invites everyone—policy- and decision-makers, scientists, industry leaders, and the public—to explore this publication and discover the unparalleled value of Earth observation. By fostering new science discoveries and investing in space technologies, we can better understand our planet and ensure a healthier, more resilient world.
Earth Observation: Groundbreaking Discoveries is now available for download
Earth Observation: Groundbreaking Discoveries is also available via the European Space Agency website.