Earth Science and Applications from Space: Initial results of Decadal Study and a Progress Report

In response to requests from NASA, NOAA and the USGS, the National Research Council is carrying out a decadal study of Earth science and applications from space. My talk summarizes the major findings and recommendations from an interim report Earth Science and Applications from Space: Urgent Needs and Opportunities to Serve the Nation, which was issued in April 2005. I also summarize recent activities of the Executive Committee and the seven thematically organized panels and directions of the final report, which will be issued in mid-to-late 2006. Information on the decadal study may be found at http://qp.nas.edu/decadalsurvey.