************************************************************************ IERS Message No. 508 October 29, 2024 ************************************************************************ Launch of an internal ML sub-campaign within 2nd EOP PCC Considering the significant increase in interest in using machine learning (ML) methods for EOP forecasting, we would like to announce the start of a special internal sub-campaign as part of the post-operational phase of the Second Earth Orientation Parameters Prediction Comparison Campaign (2nd EOP PCC) - EOP PML. The purpose of EOP PML is to analyze ML approaches in EOP forecasting in more detail. To objectively evaluate the ML-based forecasting methods themselves without analyzing the impact of input data selection, we propose that willing participants submit their EOP forecasts by adhering to even stricter rules than those imposed for the 2nd EOP PCC. The strict rules concern input data used and prediction horizon. The forecasts submitted by participants of EOP PML will be included in the analyses routinely conducted by the campaign office as part of the 2nd EOP PCC. These ML-based predictions that will follow the stricter rules will therefore contribute to the overall database of predictions and will be analyzed according to the current rules (to compare with existing methods). Additionally, they will also be analyzed separately (to evaluate the method itself). Thanks to this, on the one hand, we will be able to continue all 2nd EOP PCC activities with increased number of submissions, and on the other hand, will be capable of evaluating the ML methods in a more detailed and objective manner. Registration for the EOP PML is now open, and the first submission of predictions in the EOP PML is scheduled for Wednesday, November 6, 2024 (before 20:00 UTC). However, any new candidate is welcome at any time. If you are not ready to adjust your forecasts to the new rules by this time, you can also submit your predictions at a later date, The only requirement is to submit forecasts every Wednesday before 20:00 UTC. To participate in the EOP PML, one needs to register using the registration form, which is the same as for the regular 2nd EOP PCC: http://eoppcc.cbk.waw.pl/participant-registration/ Detailed information about the EOP PML and its rules can be found on the 2nd EOP PCC website (http://eoppcc.cbk.waw.pl/). Please distribute this message to all interested colleagues. We would be grateful for your valuable contribution. Kind regards, Justyna Sliwinska-Bronowicz Jolanta Nastula on behalf of EOP PCC Office ************************************************************************ IERS Messages are edited and distributed by the IERS Central Bureau. If not stated otherwise, the IERS is only the distributor of the message and is not responsible for its content. To submit texts for distribution, please write to . To subscribe or unsubscribe, please create an IERS account or modify it: https://www.iers.org/Login/Login/EN/login_node.html or write to . Archives: http://www.iers.org/IERS/Messages ************************************************************************