GGOS Strategic Plan 2024 – 2034: Geodesy for Science and Society

GGOS, the Global Geodetic Observing System of the International Association of Geodesy (IAG), was established as an integrating framework for all IAG Components (Services, Commissions, Inter-Commission Committees and Projects) to move from the provision of individual geodetic technique-based products to a level of consistent modelling and interpretation of Earth System processes and interactions, ensuring an integrated, consistent and long-term observing system.

GGOS regularly reviews and updates its strategic priorities to meet emerging needs in geodesy, always with a focus on strengthening GGOS’ role as a collaborative hub in support of sustainable geodesy through the promotion and integration of diverse geodetic technologies and applications.

With this in mind, we are pleased to present the new GGOS Strategic Plan 2024 – 2034: Geodesy for Science and Society. This new Plan is based on an extensive community survey consisting of six closed questions (multiple choice with predetermined answers) and seven SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) questions. 70 colleagues from 32 countries participated in the GGOS survey between 11 July and 30 September 2022. Based on this brainstorming, the GGOS Strategic Planning Committee convened a two-day community workshop to discuss and identify updated long-term goals as well as cross-cutting community needs that each Strategic Goal will seek to address.

. Guided by these Gadsadoals, the Community Needs are presented as elements of a holistic effort to support the geodetic community and advance the recognition and use of geodesy for public benefit through innovation, advocacy, communication, and integration.

The members of the GGOS Executive Committee are currently working on the related Implementation Plan, which outlines the steps required to achieve the Strategic Goals. The Implementation Plan focuses on identifying, allocating, executing, and monitoring progress, with some actions requiring a multi-year effort. GGOS will periodically assess the progress towards the implementation of this plan and provide updates to the geodesy community.

We invite all interested colleagues inside and outside the IAG to find out more about our new Strategic Plan at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10571158 and to get involved in supporting its implementation. Your participation would be greatly appreciated.

Laura Sánchez, GGOS President, Deutsches Geodätisches Forschungsinstitut, Technische Universität München, Germany

Anna Riddell, GGOS Vice-President, Geoscience Australia, Australia

Martin Sehnal, Director of the GGOS Coordinating Office, BEV Austrian Federal Office of Metrology and Surveying, Austria