Response needs: Is timely information critical, requiring frequent data collection and rapid delivery to support fast decision-making, or is a slower response acceptable? Rapid response In emergencies like wildfires, airborne imagery provides timely data that allows for fast response. Moderate response Where frequent but not real-time data is required, drones are versatile, providing regular updates. Recent advancements in the development of smaller, cost-effective satellites have enabled frequent revisits and more real-time data.Delayed response For studies needing periodic data rather than immediate updates, satellites offer consistent revisit times and broad coverage, ideal for observing gradual changes like land-use shifts. Time-series analysis: Is there a need to analyse historical data to understand long-term trends? Short-term monitoring For studies that require high-frequency data over shorter time frames, ground-based sensors are the most effective. This is especially valuable in settings where parameters can change quickly. For example, ground sensors can be used by hydrologists to track flood dynamics in real time during rainfall events.Seasonal to annual monitoring For time-series analysis across seasons or multiple years, drones can cover regions with periodic flights that capture data at specific intervals. They are a useful data source in studies on, for example, seasonal vegetation growth or erosion patterns across a forested landscape.Long-term trends For time-series analysis spanning years to decades, satellites are ideal due to their consistent revisit schedules and ability to capture large- scale changes. EO solutions include satellite-based remote sensing with high temporal resolution that enables organizations to track changes over time.Location of interest: Is the problem located in a physically inaccessible area where non-intrusive data collection is needed to avoid disrupting sensitive ecosystems or endangering personnel? High accessibility If the use case covers easy-to-access areas, such as urban centres or fields, on-the-ground teams can more easily deploy specialized sensors for detailed monitoring.Moderate accessibility In partially accessible regions like forested zones, drones can be leveraged to monitor deforestation while camera traps and acoustic sensors can capture data on biodiversity.Low accessibility In remote or inaccessible regions, such as those with strict regulations, conflict zones or polar areas, satellites are indispensable. Satellites can monitor glacier dynamics for example, bypassing the logistical requirements for human intervention or by complementing data collected by researchers. The Executive’s Playbook on Earth Observation: Strategic Insights for a Changing Planet 12

The Executive%E2%80%99s Playbook on Earth Observation 2025