Bayes Centre home to new earth data service

The International Center for Earth Data (ICED) has opened at the University of Edinburgh’s Bayes Centre.

The ICED is a joint project between data company Orbital Micro Systems (OMS), the University of Edinburgh, and the University of Colorado at Boulder, to deliver the world’s first commercially viable system for combining and distributing earth observation data.

Valuable data from ICED will capture faster and more accurate weather and environmental information, helping governments, businesses, and consumers make better decisions across a range of environmental and economic issues.

Dr Murray Collins, Space and Satellite Lead for the Data-Driven Innovation initiative, commented: “We aim to build the Space Data Capital of Europe by leveraging the University’s core expertise and upscaling our partnerships with industry to deliver innovative high-impact products and services.  We are delighted to be working with Orbital Micro Systems to develop the ICED platform as one of the first steps of our exciting DDI space innovation programme.”

OMS, a leading company in advanced instrumentation for small satellite missions and earth data intelligence, selected the University of Edinburgh for the ICED due to its data sciences programme and track record in commercial relationships.

Greg Porter, Meteorologist/UK Business Development and Senior Project Manager for OMS, said: “The official announcement of the opening of ICED marks another key milestone in our successful, ongoing relationship with the University of Edinburgh and the Bayes Centre. The development, support and expansion of ICED will all be happening right here at the Bayes Centre. That gives a young company like OMS a huge advantage as we continue to develop ICED and other products. We are able to leverage and utilize the data science, software development and academic expertise that the University and the Bayes Centre offers all at once.”

ICED subscribers will have access to reliable and timely information from OMS’ innovative low-earth orbit satellite technology that can penetrate storms and deliver a comprehensive view of weather and environmental conditions — leading to much more accurate forecasts.