The POES constellation (Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellites) provided critical environmental data used by a variety of U.S. and international agencies for multiple purposes. Here’s a rundown of the main agencies that used POES data and what they used it for:
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
As the operator of the POES satellites, NOAA used the data primarily for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and environmental observation. POES data contributed to improved global weather models, tracking storms, measuring atmospheric temperature and moisture profiles, and monitoring sea surface temperatures. -
National Weather Service (NWS)
Part of NOAA, the NWS used POES data to improve short- and medium-term weather forecasts, including severe weather warnings such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and winter storms. The polar orbiting satellites provide global coverage that complements geostationary satellites, filling in gaps and providing detailed atmospheric soundings. -
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
NASA used POES data for climate research and to support Earth science missions. The data helped analyze long-term climate trends and validate models related to atmospheric composition and energy balance. -
U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)
The DoD used POES data for weather forecasting critical to military operations worldwide. Reliable weather data is essential for mission planning, navigation, and safety. -
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
Aviation relies on POES data to forecast and monitor weather conditions affecting flight safety, including turbulence, icing, and visibility. -
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA used POES data to monitor environmental parameters like air quality and ozone levels. -
Other International Meteorological Agencies
Many countries and international meteorological centers used POES data shared via NOAA to support their weather and climate monitoring efforts.
In essence, POES data served as a backbone for global environmental monitoring, weather prediction, and climate research, supporting public safety, national security, and scientific understanding. With the recent cessation of POES data distribution, many of these agencies face challenges in maintaining the same level of observational coverage and forecast accuracy.