Terms of Reference

The role of the IPY-PG should be to formulate a concept for an IPY 2007-8 and to design the means of ICSU leading such a programme.

Specifically the Group's tasks are:

i. To gather, summarise and make widely available information on existing ideas for an IPY, serving as a clearinghouse for ideas,

ii. To stimulate, encourage and organise debate amongst a wide range of interested parties on the objectives and possible content of an IPY,

iii. To formulate a set of objectives for an IPY,

iv. To develop an initial high level Science Plan for an IPY which engages younger scientists throughout the planning process,

v. To develop a specific set of objectives targeted at formal and informal education as well as the general public in the next IPY,

vi. To develop a proposed mechanism for the design, development, guidance, and oversight of an IPY,

vii. To present a draft plan to the ICSU EB at their February 2004 meeting; and

viii. To report to the ICSU 28th General Assembly in 2005 a plan for an IPY in 2007-2008 for final endorsement.