The ESA Earth Observing Dashboard select is a collaborative initiative led by the European Space Agency (ESA), in partnership with NASA and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the dashboard was designed to provide a centralized platform that integrates data from multiple Earth observation satellites.
The primary purpose of the dashboard is to monitor the environmental, economic, and societal impacts of the pandemic, as well as the subsequent recovery measures. By leveraging satellite data, the dashboard can provide critical information on various aspects of the Earth's environment, including:
- Air quality: Assessing the changes in air pollution levels, particularly during lockdowns and reduced industrial activity.
- Water quality: Monitoring changes in water bodies due to reduced human activity, such as tourism and industrial pollution.
- Agriculture: Observing the impact of the pandemic on agricultural production, food supply chains, and crop growth patterns.
- Economic activity: Tracking changes in industrial, transportation, and energy sector activities, as well as the recovery process.
- Climate change: Examining the potential short-term and long-term consequences of the pandemic on climate change and greenhouse gas emissions.
The ESA Earth Observing Dashboard is designed to be an interactive tool, accessible to policymakers, researchers, and the general public. Users can explore various datasets, visualize trends, and analyze the impacts of the pandemic on a global, regional, or local scale. This valuable resource helps stakeholders make informed decisions, understand the consequences of the pandemic, and develop strategies for recovery and resilience in the face of global challenges.