The European Commission has launched an initiative to facilitate access to Copernicus data and information services. DIAS is designed to improve users’ ability to access as well as process Copernicus data and information by standardizing access to data through five cloud-based platforms: CREODIAS, MUNDI, ONDA, SOBLOO and WEKEO.
The European Union’s Copernicus programme produces up to 12 terabytes of data each day and Copernicus services, such as Copernicus Emergency Management Service (EMS), are provided free of charge to users. The extensive amount of data offers a wealth of opportunities in the fields of climate change, land monitoring, marine environment, atmosphere monitoring, security as well as emergency and disaster management. However, downloading and storing these data involves some complex logistical challenges.
DIAS is an answer to these logistical challenges as users no longer have to download bulky files from several access points and process them locally. Instead, DIAS platforms provide mass cloud storage of satellite data and also act as a single point of access for the Copernicus data, allowing users to develop and host new applications in the cloud.
All five DIAS online platforms not only provide a cloud-based access point for all Copernicus satellite data and imagery as well as information from the six Copernicus services, but the platforms also give access to sophisticated processing tools and resources.
DIAS is expected to increase the number of users accessing Copernicus, which has doubled each year since 2014 and is set to increase in the future. As of May 2018, Copernicus had 150,000 users.
Through the DIAS platforms, disaster management and emergency responders will be able to more easily access Copernicus data and be better equipped with the tools needed to process and apply this data to disaster and emergency situations.
The Copernicus programme
2018 marks 20 years since the manifesto was signed in Baveno, Italy, that ultimately led to the Copernicus programme. With seven Sentinel satellites currently in operation, delivering terabytes of data every day, Copernicus is the biggest provider of Earth observation data in the world.
Directed by the European Commission in partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA), Copernicus provides accurate, timely and easily accessible information related to 6 main fields: land management, the marine environment, atmosphere, emergency response, security and climate change.
Vast amounts of global data from satellites and as well as from in situ sources (ground-based, airborne or seaborne measurement systems) are being used to provide information to help service providers, public authorities and other international organisations improve the quality of life for the citizens of Europe and the world.
The information services provided are freely and openly accessible to its users through the DIAS platforms.
