The IGOS Cryosphere Theme is a combined initiative of the World Climate Research Programme (WCRP) Climate and Cryosphere (CliC) Project and the Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research (SCAR). The Theme intends to create a framework for improved coordination of cryospheric observations conducted by research, long-term scientific monitoring, and operational programmes, and to generate the data and information needed for both operational services and research. Many recommendations of the Cryosphere Theme will be implemented as part of the GEO work plan.

How are IGOS themes related to GEOSS? The Group on Earth Observations (GEO) Framework Document, 2004, states that the design approach for the Global Earth Observation System of Systems (GEOSS) builds on existing systems and data, as well as existing documentation describing observational needs in these areas. The IGOS Theme Reports play a primary role in this regard, as indicated in the GEO 2005 10-Year GEOSS implementation plan: "An integrated observation strategy (i.e. one that is coordinated, co-designed and shares data) is both more effective and more efficient than stand-alone strategies. This principle is exemplified by the work of the Integrated Global Observing Strategy Partnership (IGOS-P)". The GEOSS implementation plan reference document further recommends to "Support implementation of actions called for in GCOS Implementation Plan and the relevant IGOS-P Theme Reports".

Given this direct link between IGOS and GEO, in 2006 the IGOS Partners and the GEO Secretariat began discussing a potential transition of IGOS themes into GEO. The fate of IGOS as an entity is currently (mid-2007) unclear, but it appears that the Themes will work with GEO to ensure that Theme recommendations are represented in relatively broad GEO tasks.

For more information on the IGOS Cryosphere Theme, visit http://igos-cryosphere.org.