Terms of Reference and Objectives

The successful launches of the German CHAMP (2000) and US/German GRACE (2002) missions have led to a revolution in global gravity field mapping by space-borne observation techniques and associated activities. These two missions have proven new concepts and technologies, such as space-borne accelerometry and low-low satellite-to-satellite tracking (SST), in combination with more conventional observation techniques, like GPS/SST and satellite laser ranging (SLR). CHAMP and GRACE have already produced the first consistent long- to medium-wavelength global gravity field models and have helped in preparing for the European Space Agency (ESA) GOCE dedicated gravity field mission which will further revolutionize high-accuracy and high-resolution gravity field mapping employing for the first time in history the satellite gravity gradiometry (SGG) observations.

The focus of this sub-commission will be to promote and stimulate the following activities:

- Generation of the best possible static and temporal global gravity field models based on, but not limited to, observations by space-borne techniques (LAGEOS, CHAMP, GRACE,...)

- Preparation for future satellite missions which focus on or support global gravity field mapping (GOCE, COSMIC,…)

- Definition of enabling technologies for the more remote future (GRACE follow-on, GOCE follow-on,...)

- Communication/interfacing with gravity field model user communities (Climatology, oceanography/Altimetry, Glaciology, Solid-Earth, Geodesy,... )

To meet these goals, the Sub-commission invites the establishment of Special Study Groups (SSG’s) on relevant topics, promotes and organizes special sessions at IAG Symposia and other conferences, and reports on the research work in these areas of interest.