Multispectral remote sensing of biosphere-atmosphere processes

Space-based observations provide a unique perspective of Earth which has led to the definition of Earth System Science (ESS), promoting inter-disciplinary study of Earth as an integrated and coupled system consisting of the atmosphere, oceans and continents interacting through exchange of energy, mass and momentum over a wide range of spatial and temporal scales. The concept of Earth System Science has gained considerable support among disparate disciplines of geology, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, hydrology, and ecological sciences during the past decade. During the past decade, a large number of multi-disciplinary coordinated field experiments have been conceived and implemented in support of ESS concept. These studies have relied to a large extent on use of in situ multispectral remotely sensed observations in conjunction with coupled surface-atmosphere models. To study the biosphere-atmosphere interactions Earth scientists adopted several strategies including retrospective studies, coordinated field experiments, and modeling simulation of major terrestrial ecosystems. In these efforts, applications of multispectral remote sensing observations gained considerable support. In addition to scientific utilization of current remote sensing observations, Earth scientists and remote sensing experts identified new measurement requirements which formed the bases of the next generation of remote sensing systems. The capabilities planned as part of future remote sensing systems will further enhance quantitative applications of multispectral remotely sensed observations in studies of Earth as a system, and in developing long-term climate prediction capabilities. These capabilities could be also used in assessing the impact of environmental changes on agricultural, industrial and social development activities