COSMOS (Consortium of Organizations for Strong-Motion Observation Systems) is a non-profit consortium through which individuals, programs and institutions can work toward timely improvement in earthquake strong-motion measurements; solve mutual problems with strong-motion instrumentation, data, and analyses; assist in the dissemination of strong-motion data; and coordinate and promote research and development.
The specific objectives of COSMOS are:
(a) Develop policies and foster innovative ideas for the universal improvement in strong-motion measurements and their applications;
(b) Encourage international collaboration and exchange of knowledge;
(c) Promote the advancement of ground and infrastructure strong-motion measurement within densely urbanized areas and other locations of special significance to society likely to be struck by future earthquakes;
(d) Encourage and assist the rapid, convenient, and effective analysis and distribution of strong-motion data according to the COSMOS and other standards;
(e) Strengthen, expand, and support strong-motion programs, including topics related to station and site response, recording systems, instrumentation of the built environment, analysis and interpretation software, and analysis methods and procedures;
(f) Work to solve mutual problems with instrumentation, data quality, data processing, data dissemination, and data utilization;
(g) Advance systematic user influence on data acquisition and data dissemination processes;
(h) Advance and facilitate the use of strong-motion data to achieve improved earthquake resistance of the built environment through research and engineering practice; and
(i) Promote and support research on the areas of interest to COSMOS and contribute to the continuing education of the practicing community.