The Earth Observation Handbook 2002 Edition

The CEOS Earth Observation Handbook presents the main capabilities of satellite Earth observations, their applications and a systematic overview of present and planned CEOS agency Earth observation satellite missions and their instruments.

2002 was a significant year in terms of our consideration of the state of our environment, the impact of our activities on it, and the consequences for future generations.

The Johannesburg Summit 2002 – the World Summit on Sustainable Development – brought together tens of thousands of participants, including heads of State and Government, national delegates and leaders from non-governmental organisations (NGOs), businesses and other major groups to focus the world's attention and direct action.

The 2002 CEOS Handbook explores the need for information on our planet. Information which is essential for making decisions, defining policies, and implementing management strategies to ensure mankind has a sustainable future on Earth – resistant to impacts of man-made climate change, population growth, and increasing development.