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• TerraSAR-X: high resolution maps of ice coverage (related to IPY)
• NOAA AVHRR: regional Sea Surface Temperature
Whenever applicable, the acquired datasets are subject to reprocessing aiming at applying
the most up-to-date retrieval algorithms. Example is e.g. the reprocessing of the complete
SCIAMACHY measurement dataset obtained since the start of routine operations in August
2002 .
Users can access these data using either DLR’s EOWEB interface or the corresponding
tools of other mission providers.
1.5.3.2 World Data Center for Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere
The World Data Center for Remote Sensing of the Atmosphere (WDC-RSAT) is hosted by
DLR-DFD with mandates by ICSU, WMO and in the future CEOS. WDC-RSAT gives the
research community simplified access to a wide collection of continuously generated satel
lite-based data on the chemical composition and dynamical state of the atmosphere as well
as to data on radiation, cloud-physical parameters and to data on the ground (e.g. land sur
face data such as the NDVI etc. as well as land and sea surface temperatures). This is
achieved either by giving access to data stored at the centre resulting of systematic opera
tions of basic dataset retrieval and value adding processes at DLR or by acting as a portal
that contains links to other satellite data providers. The MoU between DLR and WMO has
been signed on 22 July 2009. WDC-RSAT will provide a one-stop shop for access to globally
distributed satellite-based data sets starting with ozone and aerosol products and contributes
its own climate-related long-term datasets (basic satellite retrieval products and value-added
products). WDC-RSAT serves as foundation of the new CEOS Atmospheric Composition
Constellation (ACC)-Portal responding to the GEO 2009-2011 work plan and also serves the
GEOSS Societal Benefit Areas Climate, Health, Weather, Disasters, and Energy. WDC-
RSAT is also making significant contributions with regard to INSPIRE (interoperability of data
centres, common metadata); it is furthermore acting as data publication agent, where da
tasets can be archived and published with a registered digital object identifier.
1.5.3.3 Retrieval algorithm development
A major effort is required to develop retrieval and data analysis algorithms. This is not only
true for new methodologies but also for existing code which has to be continuously adapted
to reflect recent progress. Initial prototype algorithms are usually developed by DLR facilities
in cooperation with scientific institutes and further on transferred to operational processor
systems. The goal is to provide for a timely delivery of high quality data products even in
missions generating permanently high data volumes.
1.6 Participation in CEOS Implementation Plan for Climate actions
The CEOS Implementation Plan for Climate in response to the GCOS implementation plan is
comprised of 59 actions addressing space-based observations. They cover the atmospheric
(12 actions), oceanic (19) and terrestrial (6) domains and are supplemented by 22 cross
cutting actions. For each action a Climate Action Team was established, with one or two per
sons acting as lead and a group of others as contributors. Each CEOS space agency was
expected to nominate individuals. At DLR a point of contact was established, coordinating a
team of experts participating in 15 climate actions. DLR will extend its WDC-RSAT to be the
foundation of the CEOS portal for the Atmospheric Composition Constellation (ACC) in close
cooperation with NASA.