The Total Operational Weather Readiness - Satellites (TOWR-S) Project

The TOWR-S project is a joint GOES-R/JPSS/National Weather Service (NWS) project designed to validate both GOES-R and JPSS satellite data with respect to the NWS forecast and warning mission. TOWR-S focuses on GOES-R, SNPP/JPSS, and Himawari satellite data integration within the Advanced Weather Interactive Processing System (AWIPS) in order to optimize its use in decision support services. In addition, data flow back to the satellite source is being critically evaluated to identify deficiencies and help refine data delivery methods. A representative subset of high-impact use cases has been derived from the NWS Directives and coordinated with operations. These use cases, along with AWIPS procedures and deployment schedules, are published for operational comment and coordination via the NWS Virtual Laboratory.

The TOWR-S project is coupled to AWIPS display and satellite data dissemination development. A continuous-integration TOWR-S AWIPS lab has been established to allow for iterative development and testing of satellite data display and mission-integration activities. Furthermore, the TOWR-S activities are being coordinated with all elements of user readiness (dissemination, AWIPS display, and forecaster training) to establish baseline operational capability milestones and to ensure forecaster readiness when these systems are deployed in the near future.