Metrology to establish an SI traceable climate observing system (MetEOC-4)

Remote sensing of Earth from space using the global observation system is the major means of obtaining the trustworthy data needed for climate change research and for providing knowledge to enable policy makers to adopt appropriate mitigation and adaptation strategies. However, this harsh environment can alter the performance of remote-sensing instrumentation. Surface-based networks also require current differences on the Earth’s infra-red radiation spectrum to be resolved.

Building on previous EMRP projects ENV53 MetEOC2, ENV04 MetEOC and EMPIR project MetEOC-3, this project will develop methodology for a new generation of accurate, cost-effective sensors for ground and space-based observations. A satellite-based spectrometer for traceable measurements on the Earth’s atmosphere will be fully calibrated along with new instrumentation and standards to allow more comparable data on sky radiance from ground-based measurement networks. Analysis algorithms will be improved to better determine the location of gas emissions and natural carbon sinks or to account for location-specific characteristics that exist between such things as forests or ocean phytoplankton. The results are expected to provide trustworthy evidence to policy makers and help timely and measured mitigation strategies to be implemented.

The overall aim of the project is to contribute to the establishment of the necessary metrology infrastructure, tailored to climate needs in readiness for its use in climate observing systems.