Ground-based observations continue to be the backbone of weather and climate prediction models. GBON observations are essential to measuring weather and climate variables that cannot be reliably observed from space. These surface-based observations also play a vital role in the calibration and validation of satellite data. In order to forecast beyond the intermediate next hours, prediction models require continued access to a wealth of real-time both space-based and land-based observations from the entire globe.
GBON delivers essential data for the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) and the Global Climate Observing System (GCOS). Both, WIGOS and GCOS are global coordination and collaboration frameworks aiming at enhancing understanding of our earth and climate system and facilitating the production of weather and climate information services, through the provision of more and better observations. They are a system of systems – with GBON being a foundational one for the two of them. See here a joint statement of the major European meteorological institutions (ECMWF, EUMETNET, EUMETSAT) and WMO in support of the SOFF.
