The Open Source Geospatial Foundation (OSGeo) and the European Space Agency (ESA) have formalized their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Intent (MoI) in July 2023. This meaningful step solidifies their longstanding active engagement through various joint activities, including mutual support at code sprints, conferences, and contributions to free and open-source geospatial projects.
OSGeo, a global non-profit organization committed to promoting open-source geospatial software, is excited to join forces with ESA, a renowned leader in Earth Observation and space research. Together, they aim to harness the power of free and open-source geospatial technologies to address critical societal and environmental challenges. By combining resources and expertise, this partnership seeks to expand the capabilities of both communities, drive the development of cutting-edge geospatial software, and foster cross-sector cooperation.
ESA, a prominent player in the space industry, recognizes the strengths of open-source geospatial technologies and the proactive spirit of the OSGeo community. Through this collaboration, ESA intends to leverage the extensive Free and Open-Source geospatial ecosystem to advance Open Science practices, particularly within the Science for Society activities as part of the Earth Observation FutureEO program.
The Memorandum of Intent represents a significant step forward in framing ongoing and future activities while promoting the shared values and principles that encourage international interoperability with open and community standards. This partnership aims to facilitate the use and development of free and open-source geospatial software in an open and inclusive manner, benefitting both communities and society as a whole.