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Facilitating Access to Global Observing Systems Data and Information

The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS)

The Global Climate Observing System (GCOS) was established in 1992 and focuses on satellite and in situ observations for climate in the atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial domain. Ocean Observing Systems for climate are planned jointly with the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS). Terrestrial climate observing systems are planned jointly with the Global Terrestrial Observing System (GTOS).

The atmospheric elements of GCOS have been planned jointly with the responsible WMO Commissions and are implemented within the program of the World Weather Watch (WWW).

Updated July 1, 2009

GCOS Networks

Atmospheric Surface Observations:

** Joint programs with GOOS

Atmospheric Upper Air Observations:

Atmospheric Constituents & Chemical Observations:


Space Based Climate Observations (Atmosphere)

The GCOS requirements for space based climate observations are of three types. Those having to do with the ocean surface have been specified by the OOPC, a joint GCOS/GOOS panel. Those that have to do with the earth's surface have been specified by the TOPC, a joint GCOS/GTOS panel. The requirements described here are related to the atmosphere and soundings of it.


Regional Observing Systems

Joint Observing Systems Programs


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