NOAA-N

NOAA-N (NOAA-18) Satellite

NOAA-N is a polar-orbiting satellite developed by NASA for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). NOAA-N collects information about Earth's atmosphere and environment to improve weather prediction and climate research across the globe. NOAA-N is the 15th in a series of polar-orbiting satellites dating back to 1978. NOAA uses two satellites, a morning and afternoon satellite, to ensure every part of the Earth is observed at least twice every 12 hours. Severe weather is monitored and reported to the National Weather Service which broadcasts the findings to the global community. With the early warning, effects of catastrophic weather events can be minimized. NOAA-N also has instruments to support an international search-and-rescue program. The Search and Rescue Satellite-Aided Tracking System, called COPAS-SARSAT, transmits to ground stations the location of emergency beacons from ships, aircraft and people in distress around the world. The program, in place since 1982, has saved many lives. NOAA-N is the first in a series of polar-orbiting satellites to be part of a joint cooperation project with the European Organisation for the Exploitation of Meteorological Satellites (EUMESTAT). NOAA-N launched from Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. at 6:22:01.566 a.m. EDT on Friday, May 20, 2005 after a perfect countdown.

NOAA-N Fact Sheet
NOAA-N Informational Booklet (PDF File)

NOAA-18 AVHRR First Picture:

NOAA-N Satellite Photos: