Preparing for the Operational Distribution and Use of the Joint Polar Satellite System initial satellite (JPSS-1)

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) operational polar-orbiting satellite constellation, including the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (S-NPP) and the Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) series, provides continuity and enhancement of earth systems observations out to 2036.  Through the JPSS Proving Ground and Risk Reduction program, we ensure mission scientific integrity, user requirements and performance for weather to climate applications.  Operational use of Key Performance Parameters identified by the National Weather Service took up to 24 months after S-NPP’s launch on 28 October, 2011, due to the learning curve and development needed for full exploitation of new remote sensing capabilities. Today, Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder (ATMS) and Cross-track Infrared Sounder (CrIS) data positively impact weather forecast accuracy.   For the Alaska region, VIIRS imagery enables forecasters to have situational awareness for severe weather even during the darkest days of winter. For NOAA’s JPSS initial satellite (JPSS-1), scheduled for launch in early 2017, we identify scope and timelines for pre-launch and post-launch activities needed to efficiently transition these capabilities into operations.  As part of these alignment efforts, operational readiness for KPPs will be possible as soon as 90 days after launch ensuring risk reduction for a possible satellite data gap. The schedule acceleration is possible because of the experience with S-NPP, and the pre-launch planning and testing enables NOAA to realize maximum benefits from the new satellite as soon after launch as possible. Finally, program best practices will inform future implementation for follow-on JPSS-3 and -4 missions ensuring benefits and enhancements during the system's design life.