About Destination Earth
A highly accurate digital model of our planet
Destination Earth (DestinE) is an ambitious initiative of the European Union to create a highly accurate digital model of Earth. It utilises an unprecedented amount of data, innovative earth system modelsSoftware applications that represent different aspects of th More, Artificial IntelligenceArtificial Intelligence is the capacity of an algorithm to a More (AI), cloud computing, high-speed connectivity networks and data from multiple existing and new sources. Europe's cutting-edge computing is utilized to monitor the effects of natural and human activity on our planet, enable users to anticipate extreme events and test and adapt policies addressing climate-related challenges.
The operational core platform, the data lake and the first digital twins are made operational as part of the Commission’s Digital Europe Programme. Horizon Europe provides research and innovation opportunities that support the further development of DestinE. There are synergies with other relevant EU entities and programmes, such as the EuroHPC Joint Undertaking and the European Space Programme, as well as related national initiatives.
The European Commission coordinates the DestinE initiative in close collaboration with the Member States, Associated Countries, scientific communities and technology experts.
The initiative is jointly implemented by three entrusted entities: the European Space Agency (ESA), the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWFEuropean Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts More) and the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMETSAT) over the next 7-10 years.
On 15 December 2021, the European Commission and the three implementing entities signed Contribution Agreements to start the first phase of implementation until mid-2024.
DestinE Timeline
DestinE is being developed gradually through the following key milestones:
Official launch event of the initiative following the signing of the Contribution Agreements earlier in 2021.
Development of the main components begins.
All the components of the system (DestinE PlatformSelf-standing DestinE system component, interfacing with the More, Data Lake, Digital Twin Engine) have been developed. The DestinE PlatformSelf-standing DestinE system component, interfacing with the More and Data Lake have been transferred into operation. Demonstration of the first two digital twins on Weather-Induced Extremes and Climate Change Adaptation and the open core platform.
Further enhancement of the DestinE systemSystem composed of the Platform, the Data Lake, and the Digi More and integration of additional digital twins and related services.
A "full" digital replica of the Earth
Who benefits
Destination Earth helps scientists and policymakers to understand the complex interactions that the environment and humans will play in shaping Earth’s future.
Destination Earth also forms the baseline for effective European adaptation strategies in support of the green transition, helping the EU reach its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2050, and the implementation of the European Commission’s Green Deal and Digital Strategy.
The European Space Agency ESA
Responsible for the DestinE Open Core ServiceRegular provision of technological capabilities, resources, More Platform, the user entry to the DestinE SystemSystem composed of the Platform, the Data Lake, and the Digi More. Based on a multi-cloud infrastructure, the platform provides access to data, applications and services.
European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites
Responsible for the DestinE DataEarth-system monitoring and prediction system output as prov More Lake : built from geographically distributed physical elements, offering discovery & data access to a large data portfolio (Digital Twins data and more) and big data processing near data.