Algorithm science to operations for the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) visible/infrared imager/radiometer suite (VIIRS)
The VIIRS sensor provides measurements for 22 environmental data records (EDRs) addressing the atmosphere, ocean surface temperature, ocean color, land parameters, aerosols, imaging for clouds and ice, and more. That is, the VIIRS collects visible and infrared radiometric data of the Earth's atmosphere, ocean, and land surfaces. Data types include atmospheric, clouds, Earth radiation budget, land/water and sea surface temperature, ocean color, and low light imagery. This wide scope of measurements calls for the preparation of a multiplicity of algorithm theoretical basis documents (ATBDs), and, additionally, for intermediate products such as cloud mask, et al. Furthermore, the VIIRS interacts with three or more other sensors. This paper addresses selected and crucial elements of the process being used to convert and test an immense volume of a maturing and changing science code to the initial operational source code in preparation for launch of NPP. The integrity of the original science code is maintained and enhanced via baseline comparisons when re-hosted, in addition to multiple planned code performance reviews.
Algorithm science to operations for the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS) ozone mapping and profiler suite (OMPS)
The NPOESS Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) will collect data to permit the retrieval of the vertical and horizontal distribution of ozone in the Earth's atmosphere. Algorithm development efforts in connection with these measurements include the preparation of Algorithm Theoretical Basis Documents (ATBDs), Operational Algorithm Documents (OADs), and science grade code with associated test sets and documentation. These items are provided to the Interface Data Processing Segment (IDPS) for conversion and integration into the operational system. This paper addresses elements of the process being used to convert, test, and maintain the maturing and changing science grade code to the initial operational source code for the OMPS. The operational OMPS SDRs and EDRs will be generated by the IDPS, that is, ozone output items will include the sensor and environmental data records, associated metadata and product validation; e.g. ancillary data, calibration information and quality flags.
IPO operational algorithm teams throughout the life cycle of NPOESS environmental satellites
The tri-agency Integrated Program Office (IPO) created Operational Algorithm Teams (OATs) in 1997 to provide scientific advice for managing the development and operation of the National Polar-orbiting Operational Environmental Satellite System (NPOESS). The scientific advice focuses on (1) assuring sound science in instrument and systems design in addition to (2) assuring development and implementation of sound scientific algorithms. This paper outlines the role of IPO operational algorithm teams from mission conception, through instrument design and development, algorithm science code development and conversion to operational code, data processing system implementation, calibration, validation, and, finally, operational data and products distribution to a range of users for weather, national security, and climate science. The composition of the algorithm science teams changes substantially as the sensors and algorithms are developed, tested, integrated, launched, become operational, and age on-orbit. The concept of leveraging our heritage scientists has proven successful with many tangible benefits to the government, the contractor teams, and, ultimately, the nation's taxpayers.