Published on 11 August 2022
A new age of data
Big data, algorithms, predictive analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning — are all buzzwords common in current business and tech circles. In today’s hyperconnected and tech-oriented environment, organisations are placing data at the centre of their operations. Understanding the potential of data products has become key in improving business performance of companies and in meeting the ever-growing customer needs. This newly found interest in data has had a transformative effect on all sectors of the economy. Data-based products are extending far beyond just the strict space industry and are actively improving the health, safety, and productivity of society.
Copernicus: EU space technology in a data-powered European economy
Over the past decades, the European Union has established the EU Space Programme, resulting in terabytes of data being gathered by the Copernicus Sentinel satellites. Near-real-time data from models, satellites and in-situ measurements are all provided as services active in different domains, such as Copernicus Atmosphere, Climate, Marine and Land services. Thanks to the European Delegated Act on Copernicus data and information policy, which provides free, full, and open access to users, Copernicus has been able to revolutionise work practices in diverse industries as a means of strategic planning and as a critical part to everyday business operations. In other words, the tools, products, and services provided by Copernicus are being leveraged to develop related downstream applications. Everyone from citizens to entrepreneurs, scientists and policymakers can benefit from such tools, which are now within arm’s reach.
Copernicus Sentinel-3 (Credit: ESA–J. Huart)
Copernicus data at the service of commercial players
By exploiting the full potential of Copernicus’ free and open data policy, developers and entrepreneurs have successfully developed a range of user-friendly, easy-to-use applications. If you click on the link below, you'll get a selection of 9 apps and businesses that have used and rely upon Copernicus data to bring users creative and sustainable solutions that can make a real difference in their day-to-day life.