NASA Technical Reports Server
+ Visit NASA.gov
+ Contact NASA
ABOUT NTRS SEARCH NTRS NTRS NEWS HELP FEEDBACK ORDER NASA INFO.
  + Home
SEARCH NTRS
Navigattion Search Options
Collection > NASA 

Author > Habib, Shahid 

NASA Center > Goddard Space Flight Center 

Publication Year > 2001-2010 > 2006 

Subject > G-I > Geophysics 

Availability Options > Order From Other Sources 

Item/Media Type > Conference Paper 


Note: Start a new navigation search by selecting a link above

Image of Earth and the Proteus research aircraft with spiral galaxy in background and the words 'Aerospace Information for a Changing World' Visit the STI Program Web Site
SEARCH NTRS

    Previous Record | Next Record + Back to Results

  + Printer Friendly
Title: Should We Enhance the Observing Systems or Improve Coordination Among the Operating Agencies: What is Needed the Most for Security--A Philosophical Discussion
Author(s): Habib, Shahid
Abstract: As an integrated observing strategy, the concept of sensorweb for Earth observations is appealing in many aspects. For instance, by increasing the spatial and temporal coverage of observations from space and other vantage points, one can eventually aid in increasing the accuracy of the atmospheric models which are precursor to hurricane track prediction, volcanic eruption forecast, and trajectory path of transcontinental transport of dust, harmful nuclear and chemical plumes. In reality, there is little analysis available in terms of benefits, costs and optimized set of sensors needed to make these necessary observations. This is a complex problem that must be carefully studied and balanced over many boundaries such as science, defense, early warning, security, and surveillance. Simplistically, the sensorweb concept from the technological point of view alone has a great appeal in the defense, early warning and security applications. In fact, it can be relatively less expensive in per unit cost as opposed to building and deploying it for the scientific use. However, overall observing approach should not be singled out and aligned somewhat orthogonally to serve a particular need. On the other hand, the sensorweb should be designed and deployed to serve multiple subject areas and customers simultaneously; and can behave as directed measuring systems for both science and operational entities. Sensorweb can be designed to act as expert systems, and/or also provide a dedicated integrated surveillance network. Today, there is no system in the world that is fully integrated in terms of reporting timely multiple hazards warnings, computing the loss of life and property damage estimates, and is also designed to cater to everyone's needs. It is not an easier problem to undertake and more so is not practically solvable. At this time due to some recent events in the world, the scientific community, social scientists, and operational agencies are more cognizant and getting together to address such colossal problems. Increasing our knowledge of the home planet, via amplified set of observations, is certainly a right step in a right direction. Furthermore, this is a pre-requisite in understanding multiple hazard phenomenas. This paper examines various sensorweb options and observing architectures that can be useful specifically in addressing some of these complex issues. The ultimate goal is to serve the society by providing potential natural hazards information to the decision makers in the most expeditious manner so they can prepare themselves to mitigate potential risks to human life, livestock and property.
NASA Center: Goddard Space Flight Center
Publication Date: [2006]
Document Source: Other Sources
No Digital Version Available: Go to Tips On Ordering
Available Data: Abstract Only
Document ID: 20060026327
Publication Information: Number of Pages = 1
Keywords: SENSORS; EXPERT SYSTEMS; SYSTEMS INTEGRATION; EARTH ATMOSPHERE; HAZARDS; EARLY WARNING SYSTEMS; HURRICANES; WEATHER FORECASTING; SURVEILLANCE;
Accessibility: Unclassified; No Copyright; Unlimited; Publicly available;
Updated/Added to NTRS: 2006-09-29

+ Back to Top

USAGov logoExternal Site
+ Sponsored by the NASA Scientific and Technical
   Information Program

+ 2004 Vision for Space Exploration
+ Freedom of Information Act
+ NASA Web Privacy Policy and Important Notices
+ NASA Disclaimers, Copyright Notice,
   and Terms and Conditions of Use


NASA

NASA Official: Calvin Mackey
Page Curator: NASA Center for AeroSpace Information (help@sti.nasa.gov)
Last Updated: July 5, 2007