Errors in the estimation of wind, temperature and moisture from space- based observations , have been reduced, particularly for regional applications, as the spatial, temporal and spectral resolution of the observations, data assimilation methods and computer power have improved.

This paper describes recent progress, illustrating the advances with results derived from the use of recent, current, and future operational sounding and geostationary image data. It presents both the improvements in the estimation of the primary analysis variables and the resultant benefits to NWP from these improved data.

In particular, the importance of satellite direct readout is shown, in providing timely data for regional applications where short data cutoff times are present. It also records the important role which shared community software plays in the utilisation of data from these operational satellite systems for both operations and research. It notes the important roles played by international collaboration, by the ITWG and by members of the wind community who attend the IWWs (International Wind Workshops). These two communities have been vital in the effective use of the operational satellite systems. The software they have produced and shared has been central in the use of satellite observations for operations and research on both global and regional scales.