1. Update on WE-06-02 Space-based GOS for Weather
Status in January 2008

2. Status
A new Vision for the space-based Global Observing System was developed on the outcome of the WMO Workshop on Re-design and Optimization of the GOS last June.
The new Vision was discussed by Expert Teams, then submitted to CGMS-35, and brought to the attention of CEOS-21 in November 2007

3. Status
The 8th session of Consultative Meetings on High-level Policy on Satellite Matters (New Orleans, /01/08) strongly supported the elements of the Vision. It encouraged WMO to be ambitious and forward-looking in refining the vision, until it is submitted for endorsement by the next WMO Commission for Basic Systems (Tentatively in Dubrovnik, November 2008). The space agencies participating in CM-8 stated that their plans for the next two decades were consistent with this Vision and indicated their readiness to contribute to its implementation.

4. Points to be highlighted
With reference to the initial objectives listed in the WE Task sheet, it should be noted that the Vision foresees, as operational components:
geostationary satellites with improved resolution imagers and IR hyperspectral sounders
sun-synchronous polar-orbiting satellites in mid-morning, afternoon, and early-morning orbit, with imagery and full IR and MW sounding package
a constellation of low Earth orbit satellites of various inclinations, with GPS radio-occultation sounders
other components that will equally serve the Weather and the Climate SBA ( global precipitation measurements (see Task CL led by JAXA), ocean surface altimetry, ocean surface wind by scatterometry and MW imagery).
Other components specifically defined to monitor climate on an operational basis (Earth Radiation Budget, atmospheric chemistry)

5. Highlights
The observation of 3D fields of horizontal wind by space-based lidar is still at a demo stage and its possible transition to operations will be considered in the light of the demonstration mission.

6. To be noted by the ADC
It should be noted that the Global Observing Systems coordinated by WMO are being integrated. The space-based GOS is already addressing Weather and Climate on an equal footing, thus the separation between GEO Task WE and CL is less relevant than it could have been in past years.

7. POC Jerome LAFEUILLE Chief, Space-based Observing Division
WMO Space Programme
Observing &Information Systems Dept.
World Meteorological Organization