On the Foundations of Earth Foundation Models

MCML Authors

Xiaoxiang Zhu

Prof. Dr.

Principal Investigator

Data Science in Earth Observation

Zhitong Xiong

Dr.

→ Group Xiaoxiang Zhu
 Data Science in Earth Observation

Adam Stewart

Dr.

→ Group Xiaoxiang Zhu
 Data Science in Earth Observation

Qingsong Xu

→ Group Xiaoxiang Zhu
 Data Science in Earth Observation

Abstract

Foundation models have enormous potential in advancing Earth sciences. However, current approaches may not be optimal, as they focus only on a few basic features of a desirable Earth foundation model. Crafting the ideal Earth foundation model, we define eleven features which would allow such a foundation model to be beneficial for any geoscientific downstream application in an environmental- and human-centric manner. We further shed light on the way forward to achieve the ideal model and to evaluate Earth foundation models. What comes after foundation models? Energy efficient adaptation, adversarial defenses, and interpretability are among the emerging directions.

article ZXW+26

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Communications Earth & Environment

Early Access. Jan. 2026.

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Authors

X. Zhu • Z. Xiong • Y. Wang • A. J. Stewart • K. Heidler • Y. Wang • Z. Yuan • T. Dujardin • Q. Xu • Y. Shi

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Links

DOI

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Research Area

 C3 | Physics and Geo Sciences