The restructured NPOESS impacts are assessed from the perspective of seasonal to interannual climate variability, as well as, decadal and multi-decadal climate variability and change. Of particular relevance is the set of Essential Climate Variables (ECVs) recommended by both the Climate Change Science Program and the Global Climate Observing System Adequacy Report.

Capabilities will be assessed related to defining the state of the climate system and its change over time for relevant ECVs. This will include an assessment of the continuity, refresh, and new development of Climate Data Records (CDRs) for the ECVs. The CDRs are used for climate change detection and attribution, as well as model evaluation. Potential mitigation strategies will also be identified for noteworthy reductions in capability.