The Phenomena Observations and Synthesis Panel's (POS) mission is to improve understanding of climate variations in the past, present and future, and to develop syntheses of critical climate parameters while sustaining and improving the global climate observing system.

Terms of Reference

• Review, prioritize, and coordinate U.S. plans for relevant studies needed to identify and elucidate observable physical coupled ocean-atmosphere-land mechanisms, processes, and phenomena in the global climate system. Studies such as diagnostics and evaluation of observations and model results, characterization of the coupled system, and others are envisioned to be addressed.

• In consultation with other groups, assess elements of, identify needs of, and coordinate plans for the sustained climate observation system especially for the ocean (including the development, assemblage, and curatorship of climate records), to improve monitoring, prediction, and simulation of the coupled ocean-atmosphere-landsystem. Additionally, guide and assess efforts to extend the record of past climate variability through assembly of quality-controlled instrumental data sets & paleoclimatic data.
• Identify, review, and prioritize regional observational efforts that should be pursued through limited deployments (aka enhanced monitoring) to advance our understanding of climate-relevant processes and phenomena.
• In consultation with other groups, assess and prioritize plans, and coordinate activities that lead to syntheses of observations and models in order to develop consistent four dimensional climate products (e.g. climate reanalyses).
• Develop and encourage mechanisms (e.g. community workshops, commissioned studies, Working Groups) to further the development and implementation of a research strategy, including filling gaps. Advise on the adequacy and effectiveness of Working Group plans and implementation.
• Advise U.S. CLIVAR on research priorities, identify research gaps, and develop suitable milestones to promote funding opportunities. Help foster and coordinate joint agency participation and support of relevant activities.

• Coordinate with other national and international activities to develop integrated, efficient, and effective overall international plans and activities.

• Publicize accomplishments and demonstrated progress in contributing towards a sustained observational system, identifying and understanding critical observable coupled phenomena, and developing assimilation/synthesis capabilities of the coupled ocean-atmosphere-land system.
• Liaise with other U.S. CLIVAR Panels and Working Groups to insure relevant needs are considered in their efforts.