The next generation GOES-R geostationary satellite series first launch is planned for no earlier than December 2014. GOES-R will host a multispectral imager, a lightning mapper and various space and solar instruments, all directed at acquiring significantly more information on the atmosphere, land, ocean, space and solar environments. The time scales for the products and applications include nowcasting, forecasting, and climatic regimes.

The GOES-R Ground Segment organization continues to work with various partners within NOAA to develop the ground solution for the next generation GOES-R series mission. The approach involves inputs from the groups who will operate and use the GOES-R systems and data to ensure a timely and smooth transition to operations. Over the past two years, the Ground System project has analyzed trade studies and made decisions that will guide our partnerships, including our eventual selected acquisition and operations vendor, to a successful system that will meet end user needs. This presentation will highlight those decisions and discuss what the end users can expect as a result.