1. SUGGESTIONS ON A DRAFT FRAMEWORK OUTLINE Presented to the Ad Hoc Inter-governmental Group on Earth Observations Gregory W. Withee U.S. Delegation August 2, 2003

2. Overview of Presentation Background Need for Framework Document to go to Japanese Ministerial meeting Outline of Framework The way forward

3. ASONDJFMAMJJASONDJ Japan Ministerial Meeting European Summit Ad Hoc Inter-governmental Group on Earth Observation (GEO) Draft Tasking U.S. SummitJuly 31 Complete Framework Document 200320042005 =GEO Meetings =Significant Events Initial GEO Meeting--August 1-2

4. Framework Document Outline Discussion Provide initial thoughts on scope, direction, approach and expectations of an Earth observation system Allow the GEO to take first steps in developing a high level decadal plan Provide initial benchmark for report to Ministerial meeting in Japan in Spring 2004

5. Suggested Outline 1)Introduction 2)Purpose 3)Elements of Earth observation system 4)Architecture for the Future 5)International Cooperation 6)Benefits

6. 1) Introduction Define the planned Earth observation system Describe the current state of Earth observations Identify needs for Earth observations Address how working together will enhance worldwide benefits

7. 2) Earth Observation System Purpose Purpose –Enhancing global Earth observation capability through a coordinated, international program Aim –Develop System concept which meets Members Earth observation requirements in systematic and coordinated manner Critical Properties –International –Comprehensive –Sustainable

8. 3) Elements of Earth Observation System Research and operational observation instruments and platforms In situ and remote sensing observation networks Communication links and computing capacity Application development centers Methodology to combine multiple-source data –to enable understanding, predictive, and assessment capability and to facilitate decision making –to yield information products useful to society

9. 4) Architecture for the Future Discuss structured architecture development process Evolve the future architecture

10. What is needed? How do we accomplish the needed cooperation? 5) International Cooperation

11. 6) Benefits of an International Earth Observation Program Respond to global requirements Identify and seek to fill gaps and avoid duplication Improvements, benefits from existing systems Facilitate decision making

12. Earth Observation System Potential Short-Term Socioeconomic Benefits

13. The Way Ahead Much work to be done, time is short Assign groups of interested members of GEO task of formulating way ahead by August 1, 2003 Subgroups likely necessary to break Framework Document task into manageable components Need for additional GEO meetings Secretariat role –Available to bring components together –Can issue progress reports to keep Members informed