(2021) CM - MiNr. 501 ** - Aland - Verner E. Suomi - meteorological satellite

Verner E. Suomi NPP - a revolution in orbital meteorology

Verner E. Suomi NPP (National Polar-orbiting Partnership) is a meteorological satellite that has become an important landmark in the development of Earth observation from space. It was launched on 28 October 2011 and named after the "father of satellite meteorology", Professor Verner E. Suomi. The satellite is a collaboration between NASA and NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) and represents an important step between previous science missions and future operational next-generation weather satellites.

Main Purpose and Benefits

The primary purpose of the Suomi NPP satellite is to monitor climate and weather with high accuracy and over the long term. Its data are used for daily weather forecasts as well as for research on global climate trends, atmospheric modelling and monitoring extreme events such as hurricanes, fires, droughts and volcanic eruptions.

Instruments and Technologies

Suomi NPP is equipped with five key scientific instruments:

• VIIRS (Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite) - provides highly detailed images of the Earth in a variety of spectral bands and is also known for its so-called "day-night band" that can image even in low moonlight or light pollution.

• CrIS (Cross-track Infrared Sounder) - measures temperature and humidity profiles of the atmosphere, which is essential for accurate weather forecasting.

• ATMS (Advanced Technology Microwave Sounder) - complements CrIS with microwave data and improves spatial and temporal coverage of measurements.

• OMPS (Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite) - monitors the amount of ozone in the stratosphere and assists in monitoring the ozone layer.

• CERES (Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System) - measures the flow of energy between Earth and space, which is key to understanding climate change.

Long-term use and scientific value

The data from the Suomi NPP are crucial not only for meteorological services but also for scientific institutions involved in climatology, oceanography, geoinformatics and environmental research. Its polar-orbiting orbit provides global coverage with high periodicity, which is important for monitoring changes at the planetary level - including ice sheet loss, the extent of forests or the changing distribution of vegetation.

Suomi NPP also serves as a precursor and technological foundation for newer Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) satellites that will continue to provide long-term, reliable data series.