Transitioning earth remote sensing data to benefit society: A paradigm for a center of excellence

A conceptual organization for a Center of Excellence to facilitate the development, transition, and utilization of Earth remote sensing observations for humanitarian applications by the broader international community is presented and discussed. The organization and functionality of the Center of Excellence eliminates many of the current limitations on the broader use of Earth remote sensing data for these applications. Examples of such organizations are presented along with domestic and international applications.