The present achievements of the EARSeL - SIG "data fusion"

Data fusion is becoming of paramount importance in Earth observation. A Special Interest Group "data fusion" has been created within EARSeL and SEE to better understand data fusion for a better exploitation of the synergy between all instruments observing and measuring our environment. The SIG also intends to make recommendations to agencies, industries and the scientific community. The communication presents the SIG and its objectives. The achievements already accomplished are: i) statement of the importance of data fusion in Earth observation, ii) dissemination of the fundamentals and properties of data fusion, iii) concept, definition and terms of reference, and iv) assessment of methods for the synthesis of images at higher spatial resolution. Further tracks are indicated. Several publications have been made, resulting from the SIG meetings. The SIG has a wide audience world-wide, benefiting from the use of Internet. It has also launched a series of high-quality international conferences in Cote d'Azur.