NOAA Set to Launch New Climate Satellite

The National oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is on track to launch a new weather satellite into space next month.

NOAA-N Prime will be the newest polar orbiting satellite that will be used not only to monitor weather and climate variables, but even to assist in search-and-resue missions and track wildlife migration patterns.

“NOAA-N Prime data will help us monitor current conditions in the atmosphere and oceans and keep tabs on long-term climate trends,” said Wayne Higgins, director of NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “These data are increasingly important in polar regions, given the potential effects of a warming climate on the polar ice cap and sea ice extent.”

For more information about NOAA-N Prime, including a fact sheet detailing the instruments and photos of the satellite, visit the N Prime Satellite Web page.