Space remote sensing and Earth observation systems provide valuable data for weather monitoring and climate intelligence. This data can also be used to model extreme weather conditions so scientists can better understand the impact these events could have on daily life and military operations.
NOAA’s Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) has provided reliable weather forecasts for decades. The GOES-R series of satellites built by Lockheed Martin provide more timely and accurate weather forecasts. It provides crucial atmospheric, hydrological, oceanic, climate, solar and space data, significantly improving the detection and observation of weather conditions that can help save lives and property.
Recently, we were awarded a contract by NASA on behalf of NOAA, to develop and build the nation’s next-generation weather satellite constellation, Geostationary Extended Observations (GeoXO). These new satellites will complement the GOES-R series to include new observations of our oceans and air pollution. As part of this constellation, we will also develop and build the Next-generation GeoXO Lightning Mapper (LMX) instruments. LMX is a single-channel, near-infrared optical instrument that detects and measures lightning, improving storm analysis and forecasting and facilitating the detection of tornado-producing storms.