The aim of the GMOSS network of excellence is to integrate Europe's civil security research so as to acquire and nourish the autonomous knowledge and expertise base Europe needs if it is to develop and maintain an effective capacity for global monitoring using satellite earth observation.

The science and technology encompassed within the Network includes:

1. the generic methods, algorithms and software needed for the automatic interpretation and visualization of imagery including feature recognition, change detection and visualisation;
2. the specific science and technology needed to provide: a. effective monitoring of international treaties protecting against proliferation of weapons of mass destruction; b. better estimates of static and dynamic populations on a global scale; c. better monitoring of infrastructure and borders; d. rapid remote assessments of damage;
3. investigations of present and future threats to security and the needs for exchange of information between stakeholders during crises; GMOSS will run for four years and initially consists of 25 organisations from the public and private sectors. The joint programme of research will aim to meet the priorities of users from the civil security sector.