The NPP Science Data Segment (SDS) is a prototype element for future Earth Science Program distributed data systems. The SDS is intended to be a research tool that will use a fully distributed interoperable architecture, with five 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 limited to assessing the quality of the NPP Environmental Data Records (EDRs) for accomplishing climate research. In instances where EDRs are short of supporting climate research, algorithm enhancements can be provided and, if necessary, demonstrated to the Production Systems.

The Final SDS Design, Architecture, and Capabilities are described.