Earth Observation (EO)
Earth Observation is the collection, analysis and presentation of information about planet Earth’s physical, chemical and biological systems via remote sensing technologies.
The UK agreed a deal to associate to Copernicus on 7 September 2023.
From 1 January 2024, UK scientists have access to unique Earth observation data, and the UK’s world leading sector will be able to bid for contracts worth over hundreds of millions.
For more information, please read:
- UK joins Horizon Europe under a new bespoke deal
- Joint Statement by the European Commission and the UK Government on the UK’s association to Horizon Europe and Copernicus
Further details will be published shortly.
Satellite EO refers to the use of a variety of satellite-based imaging equipment including optical, radar, altimeter and atmospheric instruments to collect information about the Earth. Observing the Earth with satellites provides a unique advantage over other ground-based collection methods.
Earth Observation instruments record measurements by a variety of methods.
Optical instruments obtain data by recording the Sun’s reflected energy across various wavelengths, including visible light and invisible infrared bands.
Radar instruments shine microwave pulses from space to Earth in order to record how these are reflected. These instruments measure surface roughness and have the advantage of being able to operate through cloud and darkness.
Altimeter instruments very precisely record the time it takes for a microwave or laser pulse to be bounced back to their satellite, measuring both land and sea height to an accuracy of just a few centimetres.
Atmospheric instruments work by detecting how the envelope of air surrounding our planet affects light, heat or radio energy passing through it. Certain ‘signature’ spectral wavelengths are either absorbed or emitted by the atmosphere indicating the presence of associated chemicals and gases such as oxygen or carbon dioxide.
The UK is a world leader in Earth Observations tools, technologies and data use. The uses span academic, institutional, public sector and commercial services.
The National Space Strategy states that: We will strive to remain at the forefront of Earth Observation technology and know-how.
Cross-Government Roles
Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)
DSIT works closely with Defra and the UK Space Agency to consider how government can best meet the needs of the UK’s Earth Observation sector and deliver our National Space Strategy ambition to ensure that the UK stays at the forefront of Earth Observation technology and knowhow.
UK Space Agency
The UK Space Agency works closely with DSIT and the UK’s Earth Observation sector to deliver the National Space Strategy. The UK Space Agency Corporate Plan outlines Earth Observation as a priority area, with a portfolio of activities that spans the entire value chain, from early technology development, through to missions, calibration and validation, and the development of trusted data for use. The UK Space Agency is responsible for managing the UK’s relationship with the European Space Agency (ESA).
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA)
Within Defra, Earth Observation forms a critical evidence base for environmental and monitoring policy decisions as well as multi-million-pound products including the Terrestrial Natural Capital Ecosystem Assessment programme. EO also provides a tool in our operational capability to protect, monitor and restore the natural environment. Defra amplifies EO knowledge and best practice though its Earth Observation Centre of Excellence.
Ministry of Defence (MoD)
The Ministry of Defence works for a secure and prosperous United Kingdom with global reach and influence, protecting its people, territory, values, and interests at home and overseas. The Ministry of Defence is responsible for ensuring we can protect and pursue our interests in and through space, and meeting the needs of our Armed Forces, as well as developing capabilities with built-in opportunities for potential collaboration across government, with international partners and the private sector.
News
- A new UK Climate Information Service formed to address the climate emergency
- World-first satellite to measure Earth’s water levels launches
- UK Space Agency awards £85,000 to inspire new climate services
- 2023 Events: Looking ahead to another busy year
- Earth Observation investment
- UK secures £1.84 billion investment for ESA programmes with support for Earth Observation sector
- Space data helping Earth adapt to challenges of climate change
- UNOOSA and United Kingdom release report on global space-related climate action efforts
- UK and France reach new agreement on climate change mission
- Climate change space project awarded to Airbus UK
- UK satellites to help lead the fight against climate change
- EO Mission Capability Review
- ESA Digital Twin Earth, Expressions of Interest
Key Reports
- National Space Strategy
- UK Earth Observation Technology Strategy
- Defra Earth Observation Centre of Excellence Roadmap 2023 to 2028
Funding Opportunities
Case studies
Last updated 1 January 2024 + show all updates
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Update the call to action box at the top of the page, to reflect that the date from which UK scientists can access Copernicus's Earth observation data has passed.
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Added information on UK agreement to associate to Copernicus on 7 September 2023.
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Added two links to news section.
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Updated information on page.
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The UK Earth Observation programme vision has been updated.
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First published.