GEOSS has the objective to continuously monitor the state of the earth in order to increase knowledge and understanding of our planet and its processes. Being a system of system, GEOSS has to master the challenge of integrating heterogeneous systems across institutional and political boundaries. Timely delivery of earth observation data is a key aspect in identifying potential natural and human threats, such as tornados, tsunamis, wild fires, or algae blooms.

The third workshop of the Sensor Web series invites you to come to Japan to present your current activities and opinions in the context of Sensor Web or Sensor Network applications. Building of the achievements of the first two workshops (report first workshop 2007, report second workshop 2008), this workshop continuous the very successful discussions and knowledge exchange about interoperable sensor networks.

Data from in-situ or remote sensing devices forms the basis for analyzing gradual processes, such as increasing drought, water shortages, or rising sea levels. The Sensor Web presents a paradigm in which the Internet is evolving into an active sensing macro instrument. Based on internationally adopted standards, the Sensor Web accomplishes the necessary requirements to ensure interoperability among its various components. Sensor Web software components and services work interactively in arbitrary application domains.

The Workshop is jointly organized by GEO-Task DA07-04, the Center for Spatial Information Science, University of Tokyo, and the European Commission through the integrated project SANY (http://sany-ip.eu).

The host of the workshop, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO, http://www.naro.affrc.go.jp/index_en.html) is one of the world leading research institutes in practical applications of sensor network and heterogeneous data integration in agricultural and environmental monitoring and decision support. Participants will have an opportunity to experience its most updated activities during the workshop.

NARO is also planning to hold an international workshop on sensor network and its application on May 20 (details to be announced).

Forming the Foundation Layer: Build the Sensor Web 

The aim of the Sensor Web Workshop is to

• discuss scenarios and use cases to improve interoperability between sensor data providers and consumers 
• identify standards and best practices that should be part of the GEOSS Information Infrastructure Architecture 
• learn about the Sensor Web concept, its potential and role within GEOSS 
• explore the capabilities of a strong Sensor Web within GEOSS 
• discuss about the various approaches, applications, and technologies used within sensor networks. 
• exchange experiences with sensor networks, sensor data and Sensor Web applications in the context of GEOSS 
• discuss the integration of new technologies into the Sensor Web concept, like mass market sensors and tools like Google Earth, Microsoft Virtual Earth, and NASA World Wind.

Endorsed by the GEO Secretariat and the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC), GEO task DA07-04, the Center for Spatial Information Science, University of Tokyo, the National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, the Sensor Web Alliance, and the European Commission invite everybody interested in sensors, sensor networks, information logistics and infrastructures to participate in this event. You are kindly asked to present your current work at the workshop.

Detailed transportation information is provided here. Please remember to announce your hotel in your registration email to allow us to organize transport to the meeting facilities!