On November 15, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) Measurement Lead Centre (MLC) on Ground-Based Integrated Meteorological Observation (Changsha, China) (hereinafter referred to as MLC Changsha) was launched in Changsha, Hunan, China.
As the first MLC in the Chinese mainland, MLC Changsha focuses on conducting experiments by utilizing ground-based remote sensing and in-situ instruments. It also promotes the international standardization of instrument performance, compatibility and interoperability to support earth system observation.
In April 2021, the first session of WMO Commission for Observation, Infrastructure, and Information Systems (INFCOM) adopted a resolution certifying the Changsha National Comprehensive Meteorological Observation Experimental Base of the China Meteorological Administration (CMA) as a MLC Changsha. It is the third MLC in Asia after those in Hong Kong, China, and Pocheon, Republic of Korea, and it's the only one that focuses on research related to ground-based comprehensive meteorological observation. Currently, 13 MLCs worldwide focus on research in areas such as the cryosphere, aviation, aerosols, and ground- based remote sensing.
