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COSPAR
SCIENTIFIC STRUCTURE
SCIENTIFIC STRUCTURE
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COSPAR
SCIENTIFIC STRUCTURE
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Two primary types of scientific body are active in COSPAR: Scientific Commissions (SCs) and Panels. The rules governing these bodies are contained in the COSPAR By-Laws which are reproduced in the COSPAR Directory of Organization and Associates. In certain cases, the Bureau or the Scientific Commissions set up Sub-Commissions or Task Groups to address specific topics of scientific interest to Associates.
The general responsibilities of Scientific Commissions, as approved by the COSPAR Plenary, Bangalore, June 1979, and reconfirmed by the COSPAR Plenary, Budapest, June, 1980, are:
Panel
on Potentially Environmentally Detrimental Activities in Space (PEDAS)
Panel on Radiation Belt Environment Modelling
(PRBEM)
Panel on Space Weather (PSW)
Panel on Planetary Protection (PPP)
Panel on Capacity Building (PCB)
SCIENTIFIC COMMISSION/PANEL OFFICERS AND TERMS OF REFERENCE
* = second term
Chair:
Gobron, N. (EC-JRC), 2008 - 2012
Vice-Chairs:
Arai, K. (Japan), 2008 - 2012
Han, G. (Canada), 2008 - 2012 (guoqi.han - at - dfo-mpo.gc.ca)
Kahn, R. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Intercommission/Panel
Liaison:
Scientific Commission
C: Nakamura, T. (Japan), 2006 - 2010 (nakamura - at -
rish.kyoto-u.ac.jp)
Scientific Commission C: von Savigny, C. (Germany), 2006 - 2010
Panel on Capacity Building: Kahn, R. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Terms of Reference
The principal goal of the Commission is to promote and enhance effective international
co-ordination, discussion, and cooperation in areas of studies of the lower
atmosphere-ocean-land system, where space observations can make unique and useful
contributions. The immediate objective is to accelerate the progress in our
understanding of the various physical, geochemical and biological aspects in
the atmosphere and oceans and on the Earth's surface using space capabilities.
The three particular areas of concern are covered by the three Sub-Commissions.
Particular emphasis is given to problems of developing countries.
The Sub-Commissions conduct special studies and publish appropriate reviews or technical reports, etc., organize symposia and special meetings to discuss relevant results, plans and opportunities for observational possibilities, and identify problems of current scientific interest and human importance that are ready for technological exploitation. They may also establish ad hoc task groups for carrying out any of these responsibilities.
Last update 22 September 2008.
Chair:
Llewellyn, E. (Canada), 2008 - 2012*
Vice-Chairs:
Orphal, J. (France), 2008 - 2012* (orphal - at -lisa.univ-paris12.fr)
Suzuki, M. (Japan), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
COSPAR Sub-Commission A1 promotes research and international cooperation in
the area of space borne remote sensing observation with applications in climatology,
meteorology, climate monitoring, surface processes and biosphere monitoring.
It also supports the development of new space borne remote sensing technologies
by providing an international forum for discussion and coordination.
The goals are mainly achieved through:
- the organization of symposia
and workshops at the regular COSPAR Scientific Assemblies;
- the support and sponsoring of special workshops on relevant themes;
- the editing and publishing of scientific papers presented at the COSPAR Scientific
Assemblies. These papers appear in the COSPAR journal Advances in Space Research.
The Sub-Commission also provides, on request, reviews or technical reports of current activities in the area of space borne remote sensing to international organizations such as the United Nations.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Benveniste, J. (Italy), 2008 - 2012
Vice-Chairs:
Bontempi, P. (USA), 2006
- 2010
Fukushima, H. (Japan), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
This sub-commission intends to promote and encourage research activity and international
cooperation in physical and bio-geochemical oceanography. Over the last 25 years,
this domain has passed a major turning point thanks to the arrival of new measurement
techniques on-board satellites. The global and accurate view of the ocean offered
from space has permitted a better understanding of the variety of the involved
mechanisms and their role in the earth environment. But studies and efforts
are still needed to continue to improve our knowledge. Topics of particular
interest are:
- The determination of mass, heat transport and fluxes over the ocean and their
interaction with atmosphere
- The development of new space-based techniques to monitor surface and subsurface
parameters of the ocean
- The joint use of satellite, in-situ data with models to provide analysis and
forecasts of the ocean in 3D
- The preparation of future global ocean observation systems for monitoring
the ocean
- The carbon cycle in the ocean, the biological processes, and their impact
on climate, biogeochemical cycles and productivity
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Tsuchiya, K. (Japan), 2006 - 2010* (ktsuchiya0105 - at
- mte.biglobe.ne.jp)
Vice-Chairs:
Igarashi, T. (Japan), 2008 - 2010
Lopez-Baeza, E. (Spain), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
This Sub-Commission aims to develop a better understanding of biosphere, including
artificial changes of the land surface (both physical and biological), and interactions
of land surface with atmosphere, with due emphasis on the application of active
and passive sensors' data having varied spatial and temporal resolutions acquired
from satellites. The processes of interest include heat, water, and carbon balance.
The Sub-Commission will remain abreast of the advances in and endorse and encourage
calibration and inter- calibration of sensors for quantitative monitoring and
quantifying changes in the Earth system.
Last update 4 February 2009.
Chair:
Johnson, T.V. (USA), 2008 - 2012* (torrence.v.johnson
- at - jpl.nasa.gov)
Vice-Chairs:
Korablev, O. (Russia), 2008 - 2012*
Masson, P. (France), 2008 - 2012* (masson - at - geol.u-psud.fr)
Thomas, N. (Switzerland), 2008 - 2012*
Intercommission/Panel
Liaisons:
Scientific Commission E: Grande, M. (UK), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The planetary bodies of the solar system (including the Earth), especially evolutionary,
dynamic and structural aspects; planetary atmospheres are included insofar as
these are essential attributes of their main body; smaller bodies, including
satellites, planetary rings, asteroids, comets, meteorites, and cosmic dust.
(Explanatory remarks: The studies of this Commission refer mainly to space studies,
especially through the use of space vehicles. The aspects of planetary atmospheric
studies to be emphasized are those which relate the atmosphere to the observed
surface and the interior of the planet. Structural aspects include geodesy,
the observation of planetary figures, where appropriate, and potential fields,
including the gravity field.)
Last update 3 September 2008.
Chair:
Boice, D. (USA), 2006 - 2010 (dboice - at - swri.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Capria, M.-T. (Italy), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
This Sub-Commission covers the following types of objects: cosmic dust, comets,
asteroids, and planetary rings. Within this context, the Sub-Commission covers
such topics as: sources and sinks, dynamics, distributions, physical and chemical
properties, interactions, impact processes, and experimental techniques.
Last update 8 September 2006.
Chair:
Zuheir Altamimi (France), 2007 - 2011 (zuheir.altamimi
- at - ensg.ign.fr)
Vice-Chair:
C.K. Shum (USA)
Intercommission/Panel
Liaison:
PSD: John M. Dow (ESA/ESOC) (john.dow - at - esa.int)
Terms of Reference
To develop links between various groups engaged in the field of space geodesy
and geodynamics by various techniques, coordinate work of these groups, elaborate
and propose projects implying international cooperation, follow their progress
and report on their advancement and results.
For further details please visit the IAG page of Commission
1 on Reference Frames.
Last update 11 February 2009.
Chair:
Schunk, R.W. (USA), 2008 - 2012* (schunk - at - cc.usu.edu)
Vice-Chairs:
Manson, A. (Canada), 2006 - 2010* (alan.manson - at -
usask.ca)
Nakamura, T. (Japan), 2008 - 2012* (nakamura - at - rish.kyoto-u.ac.jp)
Taylor, M.J. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Intercommission/Panel
Liaisons:
Scientific Commission
A: Nakamura, T. (Japan), 2006 - 2010 (nakamura - at -
rish.kyoto-u.ac.jp)
Scientific Commission A: von Savigny, C. (Germany), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission D: Grande, M. (UK), 2006 - 2010
Panel on Capacity Building: Gardner, L.
(USA), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The Commission stimulates planning of cooperative research program; investigates
specified aspects of the properties and structure of the upper atmospheres of
the Earth and planets; plans symposia and topical meetings in which new results
are presented and discussed, and develops comprehensive reference atmospheres
and ionospheres for the Earth and planets.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Tobiska, K. (USA), 2008 - 2012* (ktobiska - at - spacenvironment.net)
Vice-Chair:
Shiokawa, K. (Japan), 2008 - 2012* (shiokawa - at - stelab.nagoya-u.ac.jp)
Terms of Reference
The Ionosphere, Thermosphere, and Mesosphere (ITM) is the region that extends between approximately 90 and 800 km in altitude and it continues to be an arena of active international space-based and ground-based research. The density, composition, and dynamics of this region are very responsive to direct energy inputs and their variations from the Sun, the magnetosphere (high latitudes), and the middle atmosphere. The ionosphere is created by the interaction of solar extreme ultraviolet (EUV) radiation with the upper atmosphere and it extends from about 60 km above the Earth's surface to several thousand km. At high latitudes, energetic electrons precipitate into the lower ionosphere and create additional highly variable ionized regions. The ionized and neutral gases are closely linked through collisions and dynamics, responding to energy and momentum forcers from both the magnetosphere above and the atmosphere below.
Study methods for the ITM include ground optical and radio waves, sounding rockets, and satellite platforms. Increasingly, research activity has been organized beyond individual or national investigations into large, international, focused study projects. For example, in the 1990’s, research was coordinated with the Solar Terrestrial Energy Program (STEP) and with the Coupling, Energetics and Dynamics of Atmospheric Regions (CEDAR) programs. From 1998 through 2002, the Scientific Committee for Solar Terrestrial Physics (SCOSTEP) SRAMP (STEP Results, Applications and Modelling Phase) program and the PSMOS (Planetary-scale Mesopause Observing System) program were active. The EPIC (Equatorial Processes Including Coupling) program studied the ITM coupling processes at low latitudes. These programs worked in conjunction with the International Solar Cycle Study (ISCS) program that was also under the direction of SRAMP. Since 2002 SCOSTEP has evaluated the successes of previous programs and, with the recognition of space weather (the highly variable impact of the Sun’s photons, particles, and fields upon the Earth and our technological systems) it is implementing a major new program. This program is called Climate and Weather of the Sun-Earth System (CAWSES) and is implemented in the period 2004-2008. The intent of these programs is, in part, to provide a global network of observing systems and study projects to understand the Sun’s affects upon the Earth’s ITM and to determine the global scale solar, chemical, and dynamical influences on the ITM region.
Last update 29 August 2008.
Chair:
Palo, S. (USA), 2006 - 2010 (scott.palo - at - colorado.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Rapp, M. (Germany), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The "Middle Atmosphere and Lower Ionosphere (20 - 110 km)" is the focus of extremely
active research, involving groups in all the major nations of the world which
engage in atmospheric and space research. Much of the work is coordinated with,
or is consistent with, global research programs such as the post-STEP programs
of SCOSTEP, SRAMP (Step Results, Applications, and Modelling Phase), PSMOS (Planetary
Scale Mesopause Observing System), and EPIC (Equatorial Processes Including
Coupling); and the "Coupling, Energetics and Dynamics of Atmospheric Regions"
(CEDAR). Because the region contains the ozone layer, and will be involved in
all aspects of Global Climate Change, this research is of enormous significance;
it includes the SPARC program (Stratospheric Processes and their Role in Climate).
The dominant themes are wave energy incoming from the lower atmosphere, wave
interactions and momentum/energy dissipation within the region, and solar/magnetospheric
influences from above; and the changes in chemical and physical aeronomy resulting
from these dynamical processes. The Sub-Commission identifies and organizes
symposia, workshops and topical meetings for COSPAR Scientific Assemblies; these
respond to, but also provide leadership for new initiatives in research. In
addition, it reports to the UN through COSPAR.
Last update 8 September 2006.
Chair:
Titov, D.V. (Russia), 2006 - 2010* (titov - at - mps.mpg.de)
Vice-Chair:
Bougher, S. (USA), 2006 - 2010* (bougher - at - umich.edu)
Terms of Reference
COSPAR sub-commission C3
addresses the study of planetary atmospheres (including lower and upper neutral
atmospheres, ionospheres, and magnetospheres) and associated aeronomical issues.
An appropriate emphasis is placed upon recent spacecraft datasets and corresponding
model simulations that provide interpretation. As our exploration of the solar
system expands, the comparison of common features and processes across several
planetary bodies is emerging as an important objective
of this subcommission.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Kliore, A.J. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Vice-Chair:
Zasova, L. (Russia), 2008 - 2012
Chair:
Reinisch, B.W. (USA), 2006 - 2010*
Vice-Chairs:
Friedrich, M. (Austria), 2006 - 2010*
Triskova, L. (Czech Rep.), 2006 - 2010*
Terms of Reference
The Task Group was established to develop and improve a standard model of the
ionospheric plasma parameters. The model should be primarily based on experimental
evidence using all available ground and space data sources; theoretical considerations
can be helpful in bridging data gaps and for internal consistency checks. Where
discrepancies exist between different data sources the IRI team should promote
critical discussion to establish the reliability of the different data bases.
IRI should be updated as new data become available and as old data bases are
fully evaluated and exploited. IRI is a joint working group of COSPAR (prime
interest: a general description of the ionosphere for the evaluation of environmental
effects on spacecraft and experiments) and URSI (prime interest: model of the
electron density for defining the background ionosphere for radiowave propagation
studies and applications). Visit the IRI
homepage for further information.
Chair:
Rees, D. (United Kingdom), 2006 - 2010* (walnut1 - at
- easynet.co.uk)
Vice-Chair:
Tobiska, W.K. (USA), 2006 - 2010* (ktobiska - at - spacenvironment.net)
Terms of Reference
The initial target is to present a series of models for CIRA Volume 1 - Thermospheric
Models during the 2004 COSPAR Scientific Assembly.
Chair:
Scales, W. (USA), 2008 - 2012 (wscales - at - vt.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Pedersen, T. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Terms of Reference
The Sub-Commission on Active Experiments promotes research involving the active
perturbation of laboratory plasmas as well as space plasmas to enhance the understanding
of the natural space plasma environment and the interaction of space vehicles
with this environment. Some of the active perturbations used in these investigations
include (1) tethered satellites, (2) VLF transmitters, (3) charged particle
beam injections (4) chemical releases and (5) high-power radio waves. A wide
variety of diagnostics are used to isolate physical processes found in actively
perturbed space plasmas. Ground-based space plasma experiments rely heavily
on radar and optical observations. Space-based experiments rely on diagnostics
such as in situ electric field and charged particle measurements. Important
physical processes in space plasmas studied with active experiments include
plasma turbulence, wave-particle interactions, wave-wave interactions, and plasma
resonances. Physical processes studied associated with spacecraft environmental
interactions include vehicle charging and plasma wakes and turbulence produced
by vehicles passing through the charged media in space.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
von Steiger, R. (Switzerland), 2008 - 2012* (vsteiger
- at - issibern.ch)
Vice-Chairs:
Deng, X.-h. (China), 2008 - 2012* (dengxh - at - public.wh.hb.cn)
Zurbuchen, T. (USA), 2008 - 2012* (thomasz - at - umich.edu)
Intercommission/Panel
Liaisons:
Scientific Commission B: Grande, M. (UK), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission C: Grande, M. (UK), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission E: Bothmer, V. (Germany), 2006 - 2010 (bothmer
- at - astro.physik.uni-goettingen.de)
Scientific Commission E: Vilmer, N. (France), 2006 - 2010 (nicole.vilmer
- at - obspm.fr)
Panel on Capacity Building:
Potgieter, K. (S. Africa), 2006 - 2010 (fskmsp
- at - puk.ac.za)
Panel on Exploration: Grande, M. (UK), 2008 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The Commission operates by setting up Sub-Commissions to tackle specific tasks.
In defining these tasks, no particular effort is made to cover, simultaneously,
the whole range of topics involving space plasmas. Rather, an attempt is made
to deal more efficiently with selected areas.
Last update 25 August 2008.
Chair:
Scherer, K. (Germany), 2006 - 2010
Vice-Chair:
Zhang, M. (USA), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
Sub-Commission D1 concentrates on research of the heliosphere. The main objective is to provide a forum where space scientists can report, discuss, compare and study observations, theory and models.
Particular research topics include the solar wind and the heliospheric magnetic field; effects of solar activity on cosmic rays and on the heliosphere; global merged interaction regions; interplanetary shocks (together with D2; pick-up ions; neutral particles; the transport and acceleration of energetic particles and of cosmic rays, including the anomalous component; anisotropies and the composition of various components. Also covered is the heliosheath: heliospheric structure and the transition to interstellar space, including the termination shock and heliopause. Additionally, the long-term interaction with different interstellar environments and its influence to Earth is included. This comprises the theory, modelling and observation of the above-mentioned topics.
This sub-commission does
not include research on the following topics: the Sun as a star, the Sun as
the source of the solar wind, of solar energetic particles, and of the interplanetary
magnetic field, the transition from the Sun to the heliosphere, and magnetospheres.
These topics are covered by sub-commissions E2, D2/E3, and D3.
Last update 24 May 2007.
Co-Chairs:
Bothmer, V. (Germany), 2008 - 2012* (bothmer - at - astro.physik.uni-goettingen.de)
Vilmer, N. (France), 2008 - 2012* (nicole.vilmer - at
- obspm.fr)
Vice-Chair:
Harra, L. (UK), 2008 - 2012* (lkh - at -mssl.ucl.ac.uk)
Terms of Reference
(1) Observational and theoretical study of the phenomena of the quiet and active sun in the photosphere, chromosphere, and corona that relate to energy release in form of coronal heating, solar wind acceleration, energetic particle generation, flares and coronal mass ejections.
(2) Observational and theoretical
study of the subsequent phenomena in the inner heliosphere and of the processes
governing its structure, such as fast and slow solar wind streams, interplanetary
coronal mass ejections and shock waves, solar energetic particles, corotating
interaction regions including their space weather effects.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Lakhina, G.S. (India), 2008 - 2012* (lakhina - at - iigs.iigm.res.in)
Vice-Chair:
Escoubet, Ph. (ESA/ESTEC), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
Sub-Commission D3 concentrates on research of the planetary magnetospheres,
the regions of space in the planetary neighborhoods where the planet's magnetic
field and/or ionosphere deflects the solar wind flow. The aim is to understand
the nature of the coupling between the solar wind and the planetary magnetosphere,
ionosphere, upper atmosphere and/or regolith controlling the structure and dynamics
of these plasma systems. Special emphasis is paid to processes common to all
planets, such as the nature of charged particle acceleration processes, magnetic
reconnection, and transport of mass, momentum, and energy through these systems.
The existence and controlling factors for dynamic processes producing analogues
to the terrestrial geomagnetic storms and substorms are investigated.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Gehrels, N. (USA), 2006 - 2010 (neil.gehrels - at - nasa.gov)
Vice-Chairs:
Fang, C. (China), 2006 - 2010
Mendez, M. (Netherlands), 2006 - 2010 (mariano - at -
astro.rug.nl)
Ubertini, P. (Italy), 2006 - 2010
Intercommission/Panel
Liaisons:
Scientific Commission
D: Bothmer, Volker (Germany), 2005 - 2009 (bothmer - at
- astro.physik.uni-goettingen.de)
Scientific Commission D: Vilmer, Nicole (France), 2005 - 2009 (nicole.vilmer
- at - obspm.fr)
Scientific Commission
H: Cruise, M. (UK), 2006 - 2010 (a.m.cruise
- at - bham.ac.uk)
Panel on Capacity Building: Arnaud,
Keith (USA), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
Commission E deals with obtaining, sharing and analyzing data taken from space-borne platforms that are associated with the study of stars, galaxies and the universe at large. The data consist of high energy particles and radiation from the entire electromagnetic spectrum.
Last update 20 August 2008.
Chair:
Manchanda, R. (India), 2006 - 2010
Vice-Chairs:
Barret, D. (France), 2006 - 2010
Helmich, F. (Netherlands), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
Subcommission E1 deals with the study of the universe beyond the solar system.
Last update 26 August 2005.
Chair:
Schmelz, J. (USA), 2006 - 2010
Vice-Chair:
Sylwester, J. (Poland), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
Subcommission E2 deals with the study of the sun as a star.
Last update 11 September 2006.
Chair:
Reitz, G. (Germany), 2008 - 2012 (guenther.reitz - at
- dlr.de)
Vice-Chairs:
Andreev, S. (Russia), 2008 - 2012 (andreev_sg - at - mail.ru)
Viso, M. (France), 2008 - 2012
Wheeler, R. (USA), 2008 - 2012 (raymond.m.wheeler - at
- nasa.gov)
Intercommission/Panel Liaisons:
Panel on Capacity Building: Navarro-Gonzalez, R. (Mexico), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
(1) Effects of extraterrestrial environments on living systems including: (a)
biological effects of changes in gravitational forces and/or of the radiation
environment in space, especially of the heavy ions of cosmic radiation; (b)
biological and medical studies of human beings in spaceflight, life support
systems, radiation risk estimations, and nutritional problems in space; and
(c) Earth-based studies of effects of extreme environments on biological systems.
(2) Origin and evolution of life, including: (a) chemical precursors of life,
its evolution and present state within the solar system and beyond; (b) search
for extraterrestrial intelligence, for life in the solar system beyond the terrestrial
biosphere, and for molecules of biological significance in space. Biological
interchange, including: (a) possible effects of contamination of planets other
than the Earth, and of planetary satellites within the solar system by terrestrial
organisms; and (b) contamination of the Earth by materials returned from outer
space carrying potential extraterrestrial organisms that have been exposed to
space environments.
(3) Mechanisms and dynamics of ecosystems, including: (a) the natural ecosystem
on Earth as it can be observed, charted and analyzed from space; and (b) artificial
ecosystems, which are being developed for use in human life support in space
or on other celestial bodies, such as Moon or Mars.
Last update 18 September 2008.
Chair:
Hasenstein, K. (USA), 2006 - 2010* (kkh - at - louisiana.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Hampp, R. (Germany), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The objective is to provide a broad framework for gravitational biology, particularly
with reference to spaceflight, applicable to humans, animals, and plants, including
microorganisms and cell preparations. The terms of reference include: spaceflight
low-G effects; effects of ground-based low-G simulation; gravity perception
and orientation; gravity scale effects; centrifuge high-G effects; vibration
effects.
Last update 11 September 2006.
Chair:
Hei, T.K. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Vice-Chair:
Baumstark-Khan, C. (Germany), 2008 - 2012 (Christa.Baumstark-Khan
- at - dlr.de)
Terms of Reference
Biological response to cosmic solar particle and geometrically trapped radiation,
including: biological effectiveness of the hard component of cosmic radiation
(HZE particles and nuclear disintegration events); influence of external factors
(weightlessness and environmental stress) on radio-biological processes; radiation
risk and protection in solar particle events; dosimetry in manned spaceflight;
radiation standards and radiation protection in manned spaceflight.
Last update 2 February 2009.
Chair:
Kobayashi, K.
(Japan), 2006 - 2010*
(kkensei
- at - ynu.ac.jp)
Vice-Chair:
Navarro-Gonzalez, R. (Mexico), 2006 - 2010*
Terms of Reference
The study of: the pathway (chemical) by which life may have arisen - extraterrestrial
organic chemistry, chemical evolution; the early geological record (pre-Cambrian)
as it pertains to the origin and early evolution of life; the interaction of
life with the planet in physical-chemical and evolutionary terms, terrestrial
life forms in unusual and extreme environments; and finally, the search for
life (including intelligence) in the universe. Also includes development of
planetary protection plans in solar system exploration and sample return missions.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Pechurkin, N. (Russia), 2008 - 2012* (nsla - at - akadem.ru)
Vice-Chair:
Nelson, M. (UK), 2008 - 2012* (nelson - at - biospheres.com)
Terms of Reference
The scope of activities includes studies of natural ecosystems particularly
in the areas of system evolution, system control and environmentally induced
system function changes; of artificial ecosystems, particularly in areas that
will aid in understanding natural systems, that will contribute to developing
life support systems for use in space, and that will aid in understanding extraterrestrial
ecosystems. Activities of interest also include ecosystem observations from
space, the behavior of experimental ecosystems functioning in space, the recycling
of waste and production of consumables in isolated ecosystems, evaluation and
integration of bioregenerative technologies and life support systems with space
missions, and the monitoring and control of life support systems
and components.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Kozlovskaya, I. (Russia), 2006 - 2010* (ikozlovs - at
- mail.ru)
Vice-Chair:
Heer, M. (Germany), 2006 - 2010*
Terms of Reference
The objective of Sub-Commission F5 is to expand the understanding of basic physiological
mechanisms attributable to microgravity including: an integrated approach to
examine the effects of space flight conditions on the human body, providing
insights into the complex interactions of the human body functions applicable
and beneficial for human health care on Earth, development of countermeasures
for safeguarding astronauts health and beneficial for aging people or patient
groups on Earth. The terms of reference include: effects of space flight; simulation
studies like head-down bed rest or water immersion; examination of comparable
patient groups.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Chair:
Shevtsova, V. (Belgium), 2008 - 2012 (vshev - at - ulb.ac.be)
Vice-Chairs:
Amiroudine, S. (France), 2008 - 2012 (sakir.amiroudine
- at - angers.ensam.fr)
Hu, W.-R. (China), 2008 - 2010* (wrhu - at - imech.ac.cn)
Yoda, S. (Japan), 2008 - 2012
Terms of Reference
Scientific experiments in materials and fluid sciences performed in space that
utilize the physical conditions of space, mainly reduced gravity, for their
objectives. The Commission reviews fundamental theoretical and experimental
investigations which will yield significant new understanding in this field,
recommends promising avenues for future research, and coordinates exchanges
of information on scientific subjects.
Last update 12 September 2008.
Chair:
Cruise, A.M. (UK), 2008 - 2012* (a.m.cruise - at - bham.ac.uk)
Vice-Chairs:
Lee, M.C. (USA), 2006 - 2010*
Mester, J. (USA), 2008 - 2012* (mester - at - relgyro.stanford.edu)
Sumner, T.J. (UK), 2006 - 2010* (t.sumner - at - imperial.ac.uk)
Intercommission/Panel
Liaisons:
Scientific Commission E: Cruise, A.M. (UK), 2006 - 2010 (a.m.cruise
- at - bham.ac.uk)
Panel on Capacity Building:
Cruise, A.M. (UK), 2006 - 2010 (a.m.cruise
- at - bham.ac.uk)
Terms of Reference
Commission H addresses the use of space in two broadly distinct but also interrelated
areas: (1) discovering and exploring fundamental physical laws governing matter,
space and time, and (2) establishing organizing principles in physics from which
structure and complexity emerge. The first area includes, but is not limited
to, activities in gravitational and particle physics related to the testing
of General Relativity and alternative theories, the search for and study of
gravitational waves in space, the search for antimatter in space, the investigation
of possible violations of the Equivalence Principle, the search for new hypothetical
long-range forces, and the unification of the fundamental interactions of Nature.
The second area includes using space to study quantum phenomena and their applications,
for example, Bose-Einstein condensation, critical phenomena in superfluids,
and applications of laser cooling to develop new kinds of clocks. It promotes,
amongst other things, deep investigations of the role of symmetry principles
in macroscopic physics, and of the extent to which renormalization group theory
identifies universal and non-universal properties of complex systems.
Last update 12 August 2008.
Technical Panel on Satellite Dynamics (PSD)
Chair:
Visser, P.N. (Netherlands), 2008 - 2012* (pieter.visser
- at - lr.tudelft.nl)
Vice-Chair:
Willis, P. (France), 2008 - 2012* (pascal.willis - at
- ipgp.jussieu.fr)
Winter, O.C. (Brazil), 2008 - 2012 (ocwinter - at - feg.unesp.br)
Intercommission/Panel Liaison:
Sub-Commission B2: J.M.
Dow (ESA/ESOC) (john.dow - at - esa.int)
Terms of Reference
The aim of the Panel is to support and coordinate all activities aimed at the
detailed description of the motion of artificial celestial bodies. This should
be achieved by improvement of the theories of motion and by more sophisticated
evaluation of the determining forces. Detailed theoretical understanding of
the dynamics of satellites should be matched with the results of precise tracking
in order to obtain the most precise knowledge possible of the orbit itself and
of individual positions within the orbit.
The activity of the Panel is directed also to the unification of procedures
for the adjustment of satellite orbits from very precise tracking data. The
comparison and possible unification of definitions of orbital elements is one
of the important matters for discussion.
As to the responsibilities in the above-mentioned scientific goals, the Panel
endorses the formulation expressed for the responsibilities of the Scientific
Commissions.
Chair:
Vargas, A. (France), 2006 - 2010 (andre.vargas
- at - cnes.fr)
Vice-Chairs:
Manchanda, R.K. (India), 2006 - 2010
Smith, S. (USA), 2006 - 2010* (sismith - at - swri.edu)
Yoshida, T. (Japan), 2006 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The Panel on Technical Problems Related to Scientific Ballooning serves as a
forum for review, discussion and exchange of ideas on all the aspects of scientific
ballooning including balloon material, design and analysis of balloons, techniques
of balloon launch and control, balloon support instrumentation, balloon mission
concepts, concerns of an international nature and any other matter related to
scientific balloon flights. It also provides a platform for discussion of scientific
and technical issues related to the design and development of scientific payloads
for balloons for different areas of space science including Aeronomy, Atmospheric
Sciences, Solar Physics, Cosmic-rays, Astronomy, Micro Gravity etc.
Chair:
Klinkrad, H. (ESA/ESOC), 2006 - 2010
(heiner.klinkrad - at - esa.int)
Vice-Chair:
Johnson, N.L. (USA), 2009 - 2013
Terms of Reference
The COSPAR Panel on Potentially Environmentally Detrimental Activities in Space
(PEDAS) is concerned with perturbations of the terrestrial and planetary environments
resulting from space activities. Typical examples are: space debris in Earth
orbit, release of chemicals in the Earth's atmosphere by rocket launches, perturbation
of the lunar environment by manned activities as well as possible perturbation
of the Martian environment by space activities. The Panel acts on an ad hoc
basis to evaluate questions of environmental impacts by space activities alone
or together with other relevant organizations primarily to advise the international
community, e.g., the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS)
of the United Nations.
Chair:
Bourdarie, S. (France), 2008 - 2012* (sebastien.bourdarie
- at - onecert.fr)
Vice-Chairs:
Goka, T. (Japan), 2006 - 2010
Kalegaev, V. (Russia), 2006 - 2010
O'Brien, P. (USA), 2006 -
2010
Terms of Reference
The Panel was established to develop a standard model of the Earth's trapped
radiation belts. The model should be based on experimental data using all available
space data sources, while theoretical considerations will serve to guarantee
optimal model construction and use, and internal consistency. The functionality
of the model should be defined in terms of the needs of the user community.
Guidelines should be defined for developing standardised radiation monitors.
Where discrepancies exist between different data sources, the PRBEM should promote
critical discussion to establish the quality of the data sets. The model should
be updated as new data become available and as old data bases are fully evaluated
and exploited. A liaison should be established and maintained with the international
scientific and space engineering communities, such as the IACG and ISO TC20/SC14/WG14,
in order to ensure the availability and usability of data and models for radiation
belt modelling and to encourage the sharing of modelling expertise.
For further details please visit the PRBEM
home page.
Chair:
Glover, A. (ESA/ESTEC), 2008 - 2012
Vice-Chairs:
Obara, T. (Japan), 2008 - 2012 (obara.takahiro
- at - jaxa.jp)
Onsager, T.G. (USA), 2006 - 2010* (terry.onsager - at
- noaa.gov)
Terms of Reference
With the increasing use
of operational communications, global positioning and remote sensing satellites
and the expected increase in human activity in space, it has become all the
more important to have a full understanding of the impact of the space environment
on human and on technological systems. The membership of the PSW features a
wide breadth of expertise on topics ranging from the biological effects of radiation
and energetic particles on humans in space to the physical mechanisms through
which the space environment (solar, magnetospheric, ionospheric and thermospheric)
is disturbed and affect satellites and various systems on the ground, including
electric power, positioning and communication systems. The purpose of the Panel
on Space Weather is to provide to society, through COSPAR, expert knowledge
on the space environment and to encourage the development of predictive techniques
capable of forecasting changes in the space environment on a time scale that
will allow steps to be taken to address the effects of changes in that environment.
The Panel acts as a source of advice to the COSPAR Scientific Commissions on
matters pertaining to Space Weather that cross the disciplinary boundaries of
those Commissions.
For further details please
visit the PSW
home page.
Last update 27 August 2008.
Chair:
Rummel, J.D. (USA), 2008 - 2010* (rummelj - at - ecu.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Kminek, G. (ESA/ESTEC), 2008 - 2012
Terms of Reference
The Panel is concerned with
biological interchange in the conduct of solar system exploration, including:
(1) possible effects of contamination of planets other than the Earth, and of
planetary satellites within the solar system by terrestrial organisms; and (2)
contamination of the Earth by materials returned from outer space carrying potential
extraterrestrial organisms. The primary objectives of the Panel within COSPAR
are to develop, maintain, and promulgate planetary protection knowledge, policy,
and plans to prevent the harmful effects of such contamination, and through
symposia, workshops,
and topical meetings at COSPAR Assemblies to provide an international forum
for exchange of information in this area. Through COSPAR the Panel will inform
the international community, e.g., the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer
Space (COPUOS) of the United Nations, as well as various other bilateral and
multilateral organizations, of policy consensus in this area.
At the second session of its 34th meeting (20 October 2002, Houston, Texas,
(USA), the COSPAR Council adopted a revised and consolidated planetary
protection policy which will continue to be updated and amended over time.
In addition to providing specific guidelines, the policy recommends that COSPAR
members provide information to COSPAR within a reasonable time not to exceed
six months after launch about the procedures and computations used for planetary
protection for each flight and again within one year after the end of a solar-system
exploration mission about the areas of the target(s) which may have been subject
to contamination. Information provided to COSPAR is available at PPPReports.
Chair:
Willmore, A.P. (UK), 2006 - 2010* (apw - at - star.sr.bham.ac.uk)
Vice-Chairs:
Gabriel, C. (Spain), 2008 - 2012
Mathieu, P.-P. (ESA/ESRIN), 2008 - 2012
Mendez, M. (Netherlands), 2008 - 2012 (mariano - at -
astro.rug.nl)
Vogt, J. (Germany), 2006 - 2010* (j.vogt - at - iu-bremen.de)
Intercommission/Panel
Liaison:
Scientific Commission A: Kahn, R. (USA), 2008 - 2012
Scientific Commission C: Gardner, L. (USA), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission D: Potgieter, K. (S. Africa), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission E: Arnaud, K. (USA), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission F: Navarro-Gonzalez, R. (Mexico), 2006 - 2010
Scientific Commission H:
Cruise, A.M. (UK), 2006 - 2010 (a.m.cruise
- at - bham.ac.uk)
Terms of Reference
To advise COSPAR on its program of capacity building workshops.
Last update 16 September 2008.
Chair:
Narayanan, R. (USA), 2006 - 2010 (ranga - at - ufl.edu)
Vice-Chair:
Boer, M. (France), 2008 - 2012 (michel.boer - at - oamp.fr)
Terms of Reference
Area of work: Development
of means and media for the encouragement and spread of space related education.
Programme of work:
a) Work with commission chairs and other interested parties to identify the audience to whom the outreach and education is aimed. For example the audience might be primary and secondary schools, universities, public at large via the journalistic media, students, especially underprivileged students in countries where space related activities are not present etc..
b) Identify means by which educational tools and media might become available
c) Explore possible links
to and interactions with already established educational programs on topics
related to research areas covered by COSPAR
d) Identify funding opportunities within certain countries for education and
outreach work.
e) Develop means to reach the addressees, e.g. by setting up and maintaining a website; develop the rules to enter material from commissions into the website
f) Create sessions at COSPAR assemblies to discuss education related issues.
g) Establish links and strategic partnerships and alliances ( for example UNESCO) so that this activity can be supported or so that activities are not duplicated.
Last
update 27 August 2008.
Chair:
Zarnecki, J. (UK), 2007 - 2011
Vice-Chair:
Ehrenfreund, P. (USA), 2008 - 2012 (pehren - at - gwu.edu)
Intercommission/Panel
Liaison:
Scientific Commission D: Grande,
M. (UK), 2008 - 2010
Terms of Reference
The objective of the COSPAR Panel on Exploration (PEX) is to provide independent scientific advice to support the development of exploration programs and to safeguard the potential scientific assets of solar system objects. This advice will be drawn from expertise provided via the contacts maintained by COSPAR's various bodies with the international community and scientific entities. The advice will represent the consensual view of the international scientific community and should ultimately serve as a guideline for future exploration activity and cooperative efforts.
The PEX will function by coordinating the multitude of relevant activities within COSPAR's own scientific structure and by providing scientific advice as well as recommendations from the International Lunar Exploration Working Group (ILEWG), and, as appropriate, from the International Mars Exploration Working Group (IMEWG) to concerned space agencies in order to promote science objectives in programs which are adopted.
Ex-officio members will include the chairs or representatives of interested COSPAR Scientific Commissions and Panels and a delegate member of ILEWG. The Panel may also call on experts in the various domains relevant to exploration.
Last update 12 September 2008.