April 2011: The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) will present the 2011 update to the satellite-based component of the “Implementation Plan for the Global Observing System for Climate in Support of the UNFCCC” for public review.

The draft document will be opened for public review from 9 May-1 July 2011. The first “Satellite Supplement” to the 2004 GCOS Implementation Plan was produced in 2006 to help define the requirements on the accuracy, stability and resolution of satellite-based datasets in support of the GCOS Essential Climate Variables (ECV). GCOS is a joint undertaking of the World Meteorological Organization, the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission, the UN Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), the UN Environment Program and the International Council for Science. [GCOS News Release]