User Inquiries and Ground Segment Operation Activities

Abstract

Since the beginning of the operational phase in November 2022, the Environmental Mapping and Analysis Programm (EnMAP) has gathered substantial interest within the Earth Observation community, counting a considerable number of more than 1800 registered users from over 80 different countries across the globe. The EnMAP data archive is also used very frequently by users with ordering and downloading approx. 2000 tiles per months. Any science user can submit its (his/her) own observations request via the EnMAP Instrument Planning Portal (IPP, https://planning.enmap.org/, also reachable through the official website www.enmap.org), by submitting a proposal. The IP portal also provides access links to the entire EnMAP data archive via the EOWEB Geoportal. The number of users requesting future observations varies significantly based on geographic location. Notably, Europe sees the highest demand for the EnMAP mission, leading to challenges such as conflicting orders for areas within the same orbit. This convergence has introduced complexities in data acquisition, particularly for time series and orchestration of field campaigns. To ensure (increase) regular data acquisition and boost mission efficiency, a "Foreground Mission" has been introduced. This entails prioritized acquisition of extended 990-kilometer flightlines (stripes) over Europe, with a specific focus on Germany. This strategic approach aims to improve data coverage in Germany and streamlines recurring acquisitions along key transects. First this informative presentation provides an assessment of ground segment operations, with special attention given to user feedback and inquiries. Along the way, it outlines the most prevalent user concerns and highlights the strategic factors involved in requesting observations. As second part the audience gains deeper insight into the newly implemented Foreground Mission initiative.