Program distributed data systems. The SDS is intended to be a research tool that uses a distributed architecture, with 5 functionally independent elements organized around key Environmental Data Records: atmospheric sounding, ocean, land, ozone, and atmospheric composition products. The SDS will enable Climate Analysis Research Systems (CARS) development that will focus on the following areas: Atmospheric Composition, Climate Change, Carbon/Ecosystems, Solid Earth, Weather, and Water/Energy Cycle.

The primary role of the NPP SDS is to assess the quality of the NPP Environmental Data Records (EDRs) for their ability to determine climate variability and change, i.e., Climate Research. Additionally, the SDS will have the capability to provide and demonstrate algorithm enchantments if needed.