Satellite data in the Copernicus programme

An online conference entitled Use of Satellite and Copernicus Data in the Government and Private Sector is organised by the Institute of Geodesy and Cartography in cooperation with the University of Gdańsk and is scheduled for March 31 and April 1, 2021.

The primary objective of the Copernicus Earth Observation Programme of the European Commission is to collect, process and share environmental data from multiple sources that illustrate changes occurring on our planet. This makes it possible to diagnose problems and plan actions on issues such as natural disasters, climate change, monitoring of air and water pollution levels, etc. Increasing amounts of data and improved analysis increase the possibilities for design in the security and administrative sectors, as well as in business.

Conference topics will include the use of satellites, one of Copernicus' primary sources of information, as well as topics related to their application in marine environmental research, crop and drought forecasting, monitoring of air pollution levels, and the use of geospatial data in forest or urban areas.

Within the Copernicus system, a series of SENTINEL satellites observing the Earth from space is of particular importance. - 'Due to the size and influence of seas and oceans on the state of the Earth's environment, information obtained from the satellite level is particularly important,' - explains prof. dr hab. Adam Krężel from the Faculty of Oceanography and Geography, University of Gdańsk. - 'Copernicus produces both the raw satellite data and the results of its processing and analysis, allowing for free and easy acquisition,' - he adds. One of the main objectives of the European FP CUP project implemented among others by the University of Gdańsk is the dissemination of the Copernicus system. During the conference, information with particular emphasis on satellite data will be presented. The UG is responsible for issues related to the marine environment. Hence, the conference programme will include papers devoted to the Copernicus system as a source of information on the marine environment and SatBaltic as an example of practical use of satellite data for monitoring the marine environment.

Ewa Cichocka/Press Office of University of Gdańsk