- Intended users
GDEM data version 2 was distributed to any users (individual/organization) who conduct work or research in 9 societal benefit areas (disaster, health, energy, climate, weather, ecosystem, agriculture, and biodiversity) defined by GEOSS (Global Earth Observation System of System).
In version 3, it will become public domain, so anyone can freely use it.

GEOSS is an ambitious international project involving approximately 60 nations including the G8 member states (Japan included) and approximately 30 international organizations, aiming to establish within 10 years a comprehensive global-scale system that coordinates various existing and future observation facilities such as satellites and ground stations. This project is anticipated to provide valuable information for policy makers.

- Price
GDEM data will be provided free of charge to the users who utilize the data for the above purposes.

- Request for publication of results
ASTER GDEM or ASTWBD is in the public domain and there is no problem at all use.
We would appreciate if you display "ASTER GDEM (or ASTWBD) courtesy of METI and NASA"

- Immunity
Because there are known inaccuracies and artifacts in the data set, please use the product with awareness of its limitations.
The data are provided "as is" and neither NASA nor METI/Japan Space Systems will be responsible for any damages resulting from use of the data.