WMO Space Programme

The integrated space-based observing system – operational and research and development (R&D) environmental satellites and ground segments – supports all WMO-sponsored and co-sponsered programmes as a component of the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS).

Through partnerships with satellite operating agencies, such as the Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS) and the Committee on Earth Observation Satellites (CEOS), the Space Programme:

• keeps under review space-based observing capabilities (current and planned), and analyses gaps with respect to evolving requirements; 
• leads the definition and updating of a baseline system;
• supports global planning, optimization, and coordination;
• organizes satellite inter-calibration; and
• encourages transition of new technology to operations.

The Space Programme coordinates satellite data processing and dissemination activities based on common standards. While next-generation satellite systems will generate increasing amounts of advanced measurements, a major challenge is to ensure that such data are available to users in all regions. 

The Space Programme supports cooperation aimed at:

• generating products for key applications such as SCOPE-CM and SCOPE-Nowcasting;
• processing software and data assimilation;
• improving data accessibility following a satellite data dissemination strategy, which involves:

  • the formulation of data access requirements in WMO Regions

  • integrated dissemination systems (using DVB-S/S2)

  • interoperability through WIS and WIGOS metadata standards

  • direct data readout and relay protocols (DBNet) and internet-based services.

The Space Programme implements the 2015-2019 strategy of the WMO-CGMS Virtual Laboratory for Training and Education in Satellite Meteorology, relying on a network of training centres of excellence sponsored by satellite operators. Close links are maintained with relevant national and international education and training initiatives.

The Programme provides guidance on the availability and usability of satellite data, products and services, and sponsors user conferences. It also guides Members on the specific challenges and opportunities associated with the 2015-2020 generation of meteorological satellites (SATURN).

The Space Programme implements the Four-year plan for WMO coordination of space weather activities through the Inter-Programme Coordination Team on Space Weather (ICTSW), focusing on:

• standardization and enhancement of Space Weather data exchange and delivery through the WMO Information Systems (WIS);
• harmonized definition of end-products and services, including quality assurance guidelines and emergency warning procedures, in interaction with aviation and other major application sectors;
• integration of Space Weather observations, through review of space- and surface-based observation requirements, harmonization of sensor specifications, and monitoring plans for Space Weather observation; and
• encouraging dialogue between the research and operational Space Weather communities.

The availability of radio-frequency bands through adequate frequency allocations and protection measures is vital for space-based remote sensing. This use of the radio-frequency spectrum for space-based remote sensing (Earth Exploration and Meteorological Aids) is faced with a severe competition with the expansion of radio-communications.

Specific objectives of these activities are:

• to prevent any artificial emission in those natural atmospheric radiation bands that are used for passive radiometry, in particular in the microwave region;
• to secure the allocation of frequencies needed for active measurements, in particular in the microwave spectrum;
• to secure the allocation of frequencies needed for safe spacecraft operations and data download, and prevent any interference among the various satellite systems comprising the space-based observing system.

Frequency allocations are part of the International Radio Regulations that are developed and negotiated among national telecommunications authorities and eventually agreed at the World Radio Conference, which is organized on a regular basis by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU). Preparations for the World Radio Conference involve detailed studies and assessments by the various communities involved. For the meteorological community, these issues are addressed within WMO by the Steering Group on Radio-Frequency Coordination (WMO SG-RFC). Space Agencies have established the Space Frequency Coordination Group (SFCG) to coordinate their activities in this respect.