The International Institute for Geo-information Science & Earth Observation (ITC) has developed an integrated toolbox for retrieving data via GEONETCast and then managing and analyzing these data using the ILWIS opensource GIS package. ITC supports this toolbox by providing education and training on the operational use of the GEONETCast system. It also conducts research aimed at developing applications for the various GEO societal benefit areas.
GEONETCast was established by GEO to enable users without good access to high-speed internet to benefit from GEOSS. Its four communications satellites transmit data to low-cost receiving stations maintained by the users. The GEO capacity-building strategy specifically identifies GEONETCast as a significant technology for advancing the capacity of governments and institutions to explore Earth observations more effectively; it also sees the system as an efficient means for exchanging and distributing training resources to a larger number of individuals.
The ITC software toolbox is based on opensource standards and enables easy access to, and management of, GEONETCast data streams from various satellite and in-situ products and services. It also supports their efficient processing using the Integrated Land and Water Information System (ILWIS) or other geospatial information systems. The initiative represents a concrete action for GEO capacity building and seeks to expand the GEOSS user base and to build regional networks.
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