JPSS Proving Ground and Risk Reduction Cloud Applications in Aviation

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) is the Nation’s operational polar-orbiting satellite system. The first two satellites, Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership and NOAA-20, in the series were launched in 2011 and 2017, respectively. JPSS - 2 which became NOAA-21 once it reached orbit, launched last november. The JPSS Cloud data products such as Cloud Height and Cloud Phase are critical parameters to the aviation community. Both meteorologists and pilots utilize JPSS cloud data products. JPSS is actively engaging with users in the aviation community through the JPSS Proving Ground and Risk Reduction program to demonstrate the value of such products. These demonstrations provide data products and training to the users and allow for a feedback loop in which algorithm developers use to further improve the data products based on application need. Results of the feedback from demonstrations will be discussed as well as a status of the changes implemented as a result of those demonstrations. International applications of cloud products and expanding international users will be explored. Future demonstrations are planned as we continue to gather feedback to refine these products.