NASA and SpaceX have successfully launched the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) newest weather satellite, which will provide expansive coverage of weather conditions across the Western Hemisphere.
NASA, SpaceX Launch NOAA Weather Satellite 'GOES-U'
The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES-U) lifted off atop a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on Tuesday, June 25. This launch represents the final satellite in NOAA's series of advanced weather satellites.
The mission commenced at 5:26 p.m. EDT, and mission managers confirmed at 10:18 p.m. that the spacecraft's solar arrays had been deployed successfully and that it was operating under its own power.
NASA noted that GOES-U is crucial in providing continuous coverage of weather patterns and environmental conditions across the Western Hemisphere. According to NASA Administrator Bill Nelson, satellites like GOES-U are essential for monitoring weather in real-time, especially as communities worldwide experience the impacts of extreme weather.
GOES-U is equipped with advanced technology, including a new space weather instrument, the Compact Coronagraph-1. This instrument enables scientists to study the sun's atmosphere by blocking its bright light, providing insights into solar activity and its potential impacts on Earth's communications and satellite systems.
Nicky Fox, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate, emphasized the practical applications of GOES-U data in everyday life. From climate monitoring to disaster preparedness, GOES-U's capabilities are expected to enhance our understanding of Earth's systems and improve our ability to respond to environmental challenges.
From GOES-U to GOES-19
Once in geostationary orbit, approximately 22,200 miles above Earth, GOES-U will be designated as GOES-19. It will undergo rigorous testing of its instruments and systems before assuming its operational role.
According to NASA, from this vantage point, GOES-19 will provide comprehensive weather monitoring over North America, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and the Atlantic Ocean, extending its coverage to the west coast of Africa.
John Gagosian, director of NASA's Joint Agency Satellite Division, expects the satellite's data to enable meteorologists to provide timely and accurate forecasts, aiding disaster response efforts and enhancing community resilience to natural disasters.
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland procured the GOES-R series spacecraft and its instruments. Simultaneously, NASA's Launch Services Program at Kennedy Space Center was responsible for the successful launch operations.
The GOES-R Series Program will ensure continuous operation of the GOES constellation. This program manages ground systems, satellite operations, and global data distribution.
Lockheed Martin designed and constructed the GOES-R series satellites in collaboration with L3Harris Technologies, which supplied the primary instrument payload and ground system components.
"NASA and NOAA have worked together for several decades to bring critical data back down to Earth to prepare for severe storms, fire detection, and much more," Nelson said in a statement.
"This fleet of advanced satellites is strengthening resilience to our changing climate, and protecting humanity from weather hazards on Earth, and in space," he added.
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