IN FOCUS: GRSS Looks Toward 2026
By Joanne Van Voorhis
2025 marked another year of scientific advancement and community growth for IEEE GRSS. In addition to many successful global and online events, the flagship International Geoscience and Remote Sensing Symposium (IGARSS 2025), held in Brisbane, Australia under the theme “One Earth,” brought together global researchers to address pressing environmental challenges such as climate change, wildfires, flooding, and coastal degradation through cutting-edge Earth observation and remote sensing technologies, including artificial intelligence and data fusion. Throughout the year, GRSS strengthened its technical committees, expanded webinar offerings, and deepened collaborations with organizations and research institutions worldwide. Its publications continued to feature groundbreaking work across geospatial science and sensor innovation, while the Society’s award and recognition programs highlighted excellence in research, education, and service.
Member Perspective for 2026
As we look forward to 2026, we reached out to several GRSS members to explore their hopes and goals for the coming year:
Sidharth Misra (Executive Vice President, IEEE GRSS (AdCom 2026–2028):
“My hope for 2026 is that as a community we continue to translate geoscience and remote sensing into tangible benefits for the everyday lives of humankind, and have the society be a driver for positive impacts. We need to train, and enable the next generation of geoscience researchers and scientists to continue making these impacts.”
John Kerekes (Prior GRSS Vice President of Technical Activities and Chief Financial Officer, and Research Professor at Rochester Institute of Technology, US):
“It has been great to see the phenomenal growth in GRSS activity across the globe. I am excited to be part of the organizing committee of IGARSS’26 in Washington, DC next August. With the conference theme “the Future of Earth Observations” I look forward to seeing exciting new developments in remote sensing technologies and engaging with colleagues, particularly students who truly represent the future of our field.”
Paula Castro Brandao Vaz dos Santos (GRSS IDEA Committee Co-lead, and PhD candidate at Aberystwyth University, UK):
“I hope that 2026 will be a year in which IEEE GRSS reaches more people than ever before. The initiatives within GRSS have the power to change lives, whether by helping you access the software you have always wanted or by encouraging lifelong friendships that redefine how you see the world. IDEA GRSS is dedicated to Inspire, Develop, Empower, and Advance participation in our community in 2026, through programs such as the Women in Africa, Women in Latin America, Microgrants, which will be even bigger in the coming year. We will continue breaking down barriers and welcoming new voices, for a future in which science is for all!”
Carlos Lopez-Martinez (Director of Education of IEEE GRSS):
“As Director of Education of IEEE GRSS, my goal is to strengthen education as a truly global activity, reaching all continents and embracing diverse perspectives in Earth observation. GRSS education should connect communities worldwide, ensuring that high-quality training is accessible regardless of geography and responsive to both regional and global needs. I also aim to increase the impact of our educational activities by demonstrating how training can directly support professional growth. Well-designed courses and schools can help individuals develop new skills, advance their careers and gain confidence to contribute meaningfully to science and society. Achieving this vision requires strong collaboration with universities, agencies and industry, allowing GRSS to deliver relevant, forward-looking education with lasting impact.”
Thank You to Members, Volunteers, and Partners
As 2025 draws to a close, GRSS extends heartfelt thanks to our members, volunteers, and partners around the world. Your dedication has driven remarkable progress in advancing Earth observation science, fostering collaboration across disciplines, and mentoring the next generation of researchers. Together, we have continued to expand the frontiers of technology and its impact on society. As we look ahead to 2026 – the 35th anniversary of GRSS – we wish you continued success, innovation, and inspiration in your work. May the coming year bring new discoveries, strengthened partnerships, and shared achievements across our vibrant global community.
