Status of GOES-R: Instrument Performance and Post-Launch Tests

After Launch and Orbit Raising (LOR), the first Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite GOES-R series spacecraft will enter the Post-Launch Testing (PLT) phase. The objective of PLT is to validate the capability of the GOES-R system to perform the GOES mission, including evaluate, optimize and deliver to OSPO a satellite system that is ready to become a part of the operational GOES constellation, demonstrate that the observatory performs as expected on-orbit, and that continuous, uninterrupted L1b data can be used to provide science products to the user community.

These objectives are achieved through an integrated series of tests and demonstrations performed by the key elements of the system: Observatory, Ground, and Products.

The PLT phase includes the initial instrument outgassing and activation followed by a period of subsystem/instrument performance and operations testing. Activities include subsystems and instruments calibration and trending, subsystems and instruments performance optimization, and Image Navigation and Registration (INR) system startup, performance characterization and operational demonstration.

This talk will highlight instrument performance thus far in PLT. It will also discuss the milestones achieved, initial results, and upcoming testing of instruments and products.