December 2011: The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) has released the supplemental details to the satellite-based component of the “Implementation Plan for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of the UNFCCC (2011 Update).”

The supplemental details were publicly reviewed and comments have been taken into account after consultation with the broader GCOS expert community. The “Satellite Supplement” provides additional technical detail to the actions and needs identified in the 2010 updated GCOS Implementation Plan related to satellite-based observations for climate for each of the Essential Climate Variables (ECVs). In particular, it details the specific satellite data records that should be sustained in accordance with the GCOS Climate Monitoring Principles, as well as other important supplemental satellite observations that are needed on occasion or at regular intervals.

The GCOS is sponsored by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the International Council for Science (ICSU). [Satellite Supplement]