SECOND MEETING OF THE WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION COORDINATION GROUP ON SATELLITE DATA REQUIREMENTS FOR RA III AND RA IV

Transcription

1 WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION ============================================================== SECOND MEETING OF THE WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION COORDINATION GROUP ON SATELLITE DATA REQUIREMENTS FOR RA III AND RA IV Willemstad, Curaçao 5-8 September 2016 FINAL REPORT

2 WMO General Regulations Regulation 42 Recommendations of working groups shall have no status within the Organization until they have been approved by the responsible constituent body. In the case of joint working groups the recommendations must be concurred with by the presidents of the constituent bodies concerned before being submitted to the designated constituent body. Regulation 43 In the case of a recommendation made by a working group between sessions of the responsible constituent body, either in a session of a working group or by correspondence, the president of the body may, as an exceptional measure, approve the recommendation of behalf of the constituent body when the matter is, in his opinion, urgent and does not appear to imply new obligations for Members. He may then submit this recommendation for adoption by the Executive Council or to the President of the Organization for action in accordance with Regulation 9(5).

3 SECOND MEETING OF THE WORLD METEOROLOGICAL ORGANIZATION COORDINATION GROUP ON SATELLITE DATA REQUIREMENTS FOR RA III AND RA IV Willemstad, Curaçao 5-8 September OPENING OF THE SESSION (30 ) FINAL REPORT 1.1 Opening (Co-chairs L. Machado, D. Bradley; WMO S. Bojinski) The meeting was opened by the co-chairs of the WMO Coordination Group on Satellite Data Requirements for RA III and RA IV, David Bradley and Luiz Machado. They welcomed participants, expressed their gratitude to the Meteorological Department Curaçao for hosting the meeting, and thanked NOAA for sending their experts to the session. S. Bojinski (WMO) expressed his appreciation to have this second meeting in a critical time when users in the Americas prepare to the use of the next-generation GOES-R satellite. The meeting follows up to the first meeting of the Group in April 2015 in Greenbelt MD, USA, hosted by NOAA at the Satellite Conference. He thanked Dr Albert Martis, the PR of Curaçao and St. Maarten with WMO and Head of the Meteorological Department Curaçao, and his staff for their collaboration in organizing the meeting. He extended his thanks to NOAA and the U.S.-based Secure World Foundation for providing financial assistance that facilitated participation in the meeting. The WMO Office for RA IV in Costa Rica also provided advice in the preparations. He summarized the Group s achievements over the past years which include: Coordination among satellite users in RA III and IV Providing a structured user interface to satellite operators (NOAA, EUMETSAT) Definition of satellite data requirements and priorities Recommendation of preferred scanning options of GOES-13 to ensure at least hourly coverage of S America Regional surveys Identification of training needs The Group operates under WMO auspices and has been endorsed by the Regional Associations III and IV as part of the working structure. It provides support to WMO applications (weather, climate, hydrology). There is linkage to GEO through an AmeriGEOSS representative. Top priority for the session is to ensure that Members are readily prepared to use data from the new-generation GOES-R satellite identify the most cost-effective technical data access solutions (upgrade, GRB, GNC-A, internet etc.). It is also intended to identify areas of synergy, i.e., where sharing of costs and resources by countries can be beneficial. Furthermore, the session will address: Associated training needs Associated priorities for GNC-A extra bandwidth use Switch-over from EUMETCast-Americas to GNC-A Other data types required by users NOAA has sent several GOES-R experts to the meeting, offering an excellent opportunity for 3

4 Group members to get first-hand information. WMO thanked all member countries and NOAA for their strong engagement in the Group. He encouraged participation by more Members, to be formalized through nomination letters by the PR to WMO. 1.2 Welcoming remarks (Host A. Martis) A. Martis welcomed the Group to Curaçao. He stressed the importance to discuss preparation to the new generation of satellites which will shape the utilization of satellite data for a generation of users; some data types are beyond current imagination, and Members will have to learn how to use e.g., lightning detection information from GOES-R. He also pointed out the geographical and cultural value of Willemstad and expressed his hope that participants will have a chance to visit during their stay in Curaçao. A tour-de-table followed (the list of participants is available in Annex 1). ADDRESS BY THE MINISTER OF TRAFFIC, TRANSPORT AND URBAN PLANNING, GOVERNMENT OF CURACAO, H.E. MS SUSANNE CAMELIA RöMER H.E. Ms Susanne Camelia Römer welcomed all participants to Curaçao. She reflected on the benefits of environmental satellites for weather forecasting and sustainable development. She thanked the U.S. for making data from the GOES satellite available to countries in the Caribbean, and recognized the challenges associated with the new-generation GOES-R. In her view, the Group has an important role in advising countries to prepare for this satellite through technical cooperation and training (full speech available in Annex 2). 1.3 Adoption of the agenda D. Bradley explained the logic of the draft agenda, and participants accepted it as the meeting agenda (Annex 3) 1.4 Working arrangements S. Bojinski explained working arrangements for the meetings. All related documents and presentations are available at The RA-3-4-SDR webpage with all reference and background documents is: areq.html Simultaneous interpretation in English and Spanish was provided in collaboration with the WMO Regional Office for RA IV based in Costa Rica. 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE MEETING (Co-chairs L. Machado, D. Bradley, 30 ) L. Machado stressed the importance of the Group as a bridge between users and satellite data providers, following the successful model in other Regions. He elaborated on the main three objectives of the session: A. To assist in ensuring readiness of users in RA III and IV to receive and use new-generation satellite data (with priority on GOES-R), by: a. Specifying for each country a technical solution for receiving new-generation satellite data; b. Coordinating satellite data reception and dissemination solutions across RA III and IV; c. Providing information on GOES-R data access, and products; 4

5 d. Identifying needs for training and education of personnel; B. To ensure continuity of data services, and to identify priority data for dissemination on the extended bandwidth of GEONETCast-Americas; C. To discuss status and way forward of other business (e.g., updating satellite data user requirements). Upgrades will be needed on the part of many Members in terms of data reception, management, and visualization. SigmaCast (item 8) is one solution to address this issue. E. Collini remarked that PRs in RA III and IV are often unaware of the challenges associated with preparing for GOES-R. WMO Cg-17 resolved on preparation to new generation of meteorological satellites. A. Martis suggested raising more awareness among directors of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) by providing information on next-generation satellites to WMO bodies such as the Hurricane Committee and the Ibero-American meeting of meteorological services. Meetings of the AMS are another venue. Such outreach should not only be directed to the heads of NMHSs but also to the technical level. E. Madsen and J. Daniels noted that despite all preparatory efforts on the part of NOAA, there will be challenges to really use the new data by forecasters and other users, once they are available. RECOMMENDATION 1: The Group should use opportunities such as the Hurricane Committee, the Ibero-American meeting of NMHS and AMS to increase awareness of the issues associated with preparing for GOES-R. 3. PERSPECTIVES OF PRESIDENTS OF RA III and IV (20 ) As Vice-President of RA IV, A. Martis stressed the importance to continue to inform the Region about the opportunities and challenges associated with new-generation satellites. 4. REVIEW OF ACTIVITIES S. Bojinski recalled the WMO governance of the Group, i.e. its role within the Regional Associations and the reporting lines into the WMO Commission for Basic Systems (CBS), through the Inter-Programme Expert Team on Satellite Utilization and Products (IPET-SUP) and the Open Programme Area Group on Integrated Observing Systems (OPAG IOS). RA III at its 16th session in 2014 recognized the Group as technical advisory body of the Working Group on Infrastructure and Technology Development. RA IV at its 16th session in 2013 recognized the Group as advisory group of the Task Team in charge of the WMO Integrated Global Observing System (WIGOS) and the WMO Information System (WIS) implementation. There is also direct reporting to the Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS). He showed the current list of members on the Group (coming from 15 Members/Territories, and two satellite operators, see Annex 4). Members in RA III and IV are invited to formally join the Group. The Group s Terms of Reference are provided in Annex Regional User Survey (D. Souza, 25 ) D. Souza described key results from the 2015 regional user survey, to which 23 countries responded (out of 38 in total in RA III and IV). Answers include information on the current and planned data reception mechanisms, priorities in satellite data types to be disseminated, data 5

6 latency requirements, and capacity building and training needs. He elaborated on planned use of GEONETCast-Americas, and the transition from EUMETCast-Americas stations to GEONETCast- Americas. Use of JPSS and to some extent GOES-R is for many users contingent on more information about the systems, and on qualified personnel to be able to operate the systems. E. Madsen reported that the regional survey results have been useful for NOAA briefings. D. Rodriguez and E. Collini remarked that response levels have been limited from some countries. M. Garbanzo noted that UCR never received the survey. G. de Souza remarked survey fatigue among some Members that can compromise the validity of results. Another factor he mentioned is unawareness of GEONETCast-Americas if Members are not part of GEO. E. Cruz noted that Questions 7b and 7c (related to EUMETCast-Americas), and 14c (on human resources to operate a JPSS receiving station), were not easily responded by NMHS since they often do not have or lack continuity in the personnel to respond properly (in case of retirement or lack of capacity). Personnel that have been trained should be obliged to stay within the NMHS more continuity of personnel is required to effectively represent country needs within the Group. D. Scott and B. Thomas stressed that Members on the Group needed to fulfil both the roles of data manager (technician) as well as application experts, and this posed a challenge to some countries. L. Machado raised the idea of a South American desk on satellite utilization in which experts would receive hands-on 1-3 months exposure to technical and scientific aspects, following the example of the NCEP international (Latin America) desk. P. Seymour pointed out the availability of online training resources in English and Spanish. E. Madsen said that in addition to NOAA, there are other institutions in the Western Hemisphere that could host such experts. The 2017 NOAA Satellite Conference is planned to be held in NYC in the week of 17 July. 4.2 Roadmap for Regional Satellite Data Distribution (G. de Souza, 25 ) G. de Souza presented the roadmap which included a description of interactions with countries and vendors regarding GOES-R data access. He showed an overview of the status and planned systems by RA III and IV (based on results from the 1 st meeting and subsequent iteration). He structured the presentation along the various operational data distribution routes (internet-based, GRB, GEONETCast-Americas, data as a service ). In many cases, hardware and software for data visualization will have to be provided by the users. He stressed that National Meteorological Services (NMSs) should base their decision regarding future data reception systems on their national and international mandates and service obligations. He recommended countries to conclude yearly support contracts that go beyond the warranty period for hardware. Furthermore, archive solutions will have to take into account the data volumes expected from GOES-R (full dataset: 1.5TB daily). Except for localized or customized products, the CLASS system could be used to retrieve archived data. It was clarified that CLASS services are not free beyond a threshold of requested data volume. The status of a NOAA data push services based on terrestrial networks is open. Reliability of the internet during an extreme event (e.g., hurricane) is yet to be demonstrated. The Roadmap document includes a generic invitation to tender for a GRB station (see RA-3-4- SDR-2/Doc.4.2). A succinct overview of the existing GOES-R data access mechanisms, their features, and typical user requirements, is provided in Annex 6. 6

7 4.3 Regional Satellite Training Needs (E. Collini, 15 ) E. Collini reported on requirements for capacity building and training identified in the 2015 regional survey. Training needs are greatest on imagery (39%). There is high awareness of training resources such as COMET and WMO VLab. She listed some of the challenges identified by forecast officers in NMHS. She described ongoing and planned training courses, and raised suggestions for training activities (see results of the break-out group on Training under item 13). Most institutions would consider organize local theoretical courses (58%) and local training workshops (69%). The economic factor is a key obstacle for the realization of these courses. In the other hand, 90% of the institutions consider giving time to their employees for virtual training. Most institutions (55%) do not have specialized human resources to operate a GOES-R station. According to the comments, they do not exist, need to be updated, or are limited. There are only a few institutions that are able to properly operate a GOES-R direct readout station. The requested training varies from basic operation, maintenance and applications to advanced training on raw data processing 4.4 Prioritized User Requirements (L. Machado, 20 ) L. Machado presented the satellite data requirements that have been developed and prioritized by the Group (see %20Product%20Priorities%20-%20V a.xlsx). There are currently 402 entries to the list, which are equivalent to about 4 Mbps on GEONETCast-Americas. The entries assigned Priority 1 make out about 2.2 Mbps (see also Figure 1). 5. WMO SUPPORTING USER READINESS (S. Bojinski, 20 ) S. Bojinski presented on the case for Members to prepare for the next-generation satellites in all WMO Regions. He showed the Best Practices for Achieving User Readiness to New-Generation Satellites. In there, the Reference User Readiness Project guides Members in this preparation process, and satellite operators in providing the necessary information. He also showed online tools provided by WMO to support satellite data users: the Product Access Guide, OSCAR/Space, and the Satellite User Readiness Navigator (SATURN). 6. CONSTELLATIONS, GOES-R OVERVIEW AND GOES-R DATA AND PRODUCT ACCESS 6.1. GOES and POES Constellation and Flyout Charts (P. Seymour, 10 ) P. Seymour showed the status of the GOES constellation, and plans for GOES-R: A decision on the final position of GOES-R will only be taken one year after launch (currently scheduled for 4 Nov 2016). When prompted by NOAA, the RA-3-4-SDR group indicated a strong preference for GOES-R being put in the East position (75 W) GOES-R Overview (Includes Level II product at high level) (W. MacKenzie, 40 ) W. MacKenzie (NOAA NESDIS) described the GOES-R plans for launch and data availability (first public imagery ( first light ): ~January 2017, first data ~February 2017, operational data: one year after launch). The GLM takes 500 frames per second, and has a data latency of 20s; details on the product delivered to users are yet to be determined. Compared to the current GOES imager, ABI 7

8 produces a factor of 3 in spectral resolution, 4 in spatial resolution, and 5 in temporal resolution. 6.3 GOES-R Data Access: GRB and PDA/Class (W. MacKenzie, 50 ) He described the various GOES-R data access mechanisms (GRB, AWIPS, HRIT/EMWIN, PDA, GEONETCast-Americas, CLASS; see Annex 6 for a summary). He then described the GOES-R data release strategy for the various GOES-R instruments: ABI data will start flowing at launch+100d, GLM at launch +140d. Some proxy data for GOES-R can be made available over GNC-A as soon as the technical conditions are met (interfaces) and as soon as users have expressed clear requirements (see section 13 for these requirements). He demonstrated the utility of 1-min image scans to follow convective initiation, fires, volcanic ash dispersion. The standard positions of mesoscale sectors will be above major aviation corridors over CONUS. Regarding requests for mesoscale sector scans by international users, e.g., in case of an extreme event in South America, he showed 32 priorities for ABI mesoscale/mode change requests that have implications for international partners. International requests will bring their operational requests through the NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch (SAB). Early requests with Kathryn Mozer will help put requests on the list, e.g., for a research project intensive observational period. There is no clear latency requirement that the PDA would follow; PDA has 1s latency after data reception. GNC-A will be pulling data off the PDA. S. Bojinski asked about NOAA plans to forward GOES-R on the WMO GTS. Only GOES-R winds are planned to be placed onto the GTS. PDA subscriptions are on a case-by-case basis where there is a demonstrated operational, real-time need for GOES-R data. RECOMMENDATION 2: NOAA to inform on their plans to put GOES-R data on the WMO GTS. 6.4 GOES-R Data Access: HRIT/EMWIN and NWS ISCS (P. Seymour, 10 ) P. Seymour presented the transition from LRIT and EMWIN to HRIT/EMWIN. The antenna size should remain similar to the current situation. Transition of basic imagery is still to be defined. 7. GEONETCAST-AMERICAS UPDATE (P. Seymour, 15 ) P. Seymour briefed on GEONETCast-Americas. The system is now a Foundational Task under the GEO Common Infrastructure and AmeriGEOSS. It is based on DVB-S television-type signal. Since 2008, GNC-A has been running at 2.0Mbps and has recently been upgraded to 6.7 Mbps to accommodate the upcoming GOES-R and JPSS data. The U.S. NWS ISCS programme is now pushing its data via GNC-A as a backup to the GTS internet file service (GIFS). A key question to the Group is: which datasets should be added to the additional bandwidth of GEONETCast-Americas (see section 13 for a response by the Group). GNC-A has been recognized by the International Charter Space and Major Disasters as an alternative data distribution system. A GNC-A Receive Station Setup Guide (by Rosario Alfaro) exists to help installation of a station. Once registered, providers can upload their own data products on GNC-A, with the expectation that they provide support to users of these products. He mentioned the necessity for users of EUMETCast-Americas (ceasing operation in Dec 2016) to transition to GEONETCast-Americas. The GNC-A contract will be re-competed in Feb P. 8

9 Seymour will attempt to keep the downlink frequency as is under a new contract. L. Machado remarked the lack of companies to offer a full package for GNC-A stations including maintenance. INPE have experience in buying full solutions. A helpdesk will be needed to respond to requests for information from the installation. M. Oduber asked (i) whether NOAAport data could be pushed on GNC-A, (ii) about details on the EMWIN upgrade for the Caribbean, (iii) whether GOES-E full-disk imagery will be on GNC-A every 3 hours. The warning channel on ISCS which includes tsunami bulletins, gets re-transmitted on GNC-A. 8. GEONETCAST-AMERICAS DATA ACCESS USING SIGMACAST (D. Souza, 15 ) D. Souza briefed on the installation of 25 new GNC-A stations at regional meteorological offices in Brazil. Training was provided to data engineers in setting up stations and antennas, and to meteorologists on the new products. This has been a very successful activity. The SigmaCast processing and visualization software is based on open source libraries and can take in almost all common data formats (still working on BUFR and KML). He showed some features of the software to overlay and animate products and imagery; software updates on user stations are made through GNC-A. The software is based on Linux, and a Windows-based version is currently developed. Being open source, users can develop their own modules and add their own datasets. The interface will be translated into multiple languages. A community of users is being created using , social media etc. The project will terminate this year after three years. INPE cannot provide continuing support to the station operators, and a follow-up solution needs to be found. There is also a portable solution for a GNC-A station. SigmaCast can read text messages, e.g., from warnings in alphanumerical code. S. Bojinski noted that companies do offer complete installation and maintenance solutions for GEONETCast-type stations, such as used in the JMA-WMO HimawariCast project that deploys receiving systems in 14 countries of the Asia-Pacific region. E. Collini remarked that a couple of GNC-A stations would greatly overcome the communication barriers in Patagonia, for example during the Puyehue Cordon Caulle eruption. 9. COUNTRY-SPECIFIC TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS FOR DATA ACCESS, EXCHANGE, AND ARCHIVING 9.1 Country-specific technical solutions Argentina, Aruba, Belize, Brazil, BCT, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, France, Peru, Saint Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, CMO Country reports included information on the (i) Status of satellite data reception, (ii) Status of planning to receive new data (from GOES-R and other), (iii)applications with satellite data involvement, (iv) Needs for capacity building and training, (v) Questions. Based on the country reports: - an overview of satellite reception infrastructure, and plans with regard to GOES-R, for each Member/Territory in RA III and IV (except for the U.S.) is provided in Annex 9 - A draft training plan for the Region, aiming at user preparation for GOES-R, and building on existing training resources, is given in Annex 7. 9

10 Additional key points made by presenters are summarized in the following: Argentina (E. Collini) reported that budgetary issues were responsible for lack of progress in planning and purchasing new reception equipment. SMN plan to buy at least one GNC-A station. SMN intends to exchange data with other countries in the Region, and to evaluate whether they would upload products on GNC-A. Applications with satellite components include weather forecasts and warnings, hydrological forecasts, disaster risk reduction, volcanic ash detection, search and rescue in open waters, and sea ice monitoring. She provided a list of products necessary to support these applications (such as SST, low stratus and fog, nephanalysis, volcanic ash, snow cover, LST and NDVI, fire detection). Needs for capacity building and training in Argentina include forecast offices challenges to integrate GOES-R products into their forecasts and warnings. Material from the GOES-R training plan for NWS forecasters is planned to be used. More orientation on the training available is required. Courses with regional scope in Spanish should be organized, and the Argentina VLab Centre of Excellence is committed to make a contribution. SMN and the University of Buenos Aires offer a range of possibilities for education and training that should be engaged in preparing the Region, and that need updating with regard to GOES-R and JPSS. The idea of an international desk for satellite matters was raised, following the example of the NCEP Latin America desk. She advocated more exchange of young research personnel from the Region with U.S. (and other) institutions involved in the GOES-R proving ground. She also brought forth the idea of a regional centre for satellite applications and training. Aruba (M. Oduber) reported on the plans to upgrade reception equipment (GRB, HRIT/EMWIN, GEONETCast-Americas). Aruba is also using the Internet Data Distribution (IDD) network from UCAR and webpages from NOAA and METEO France to receive satellite imagery. The Meteorological Service of Aruba is planning to buy a GEONETCAST system in period 2016/2017 and a GRB in 2017/2018. GEONETCAST (GNC-a) will be an interim solution for the Meteorological Service of Aruba, but if it suffices the requirements it will be used in place of a GRB system. Satellite data at the Meteorological Service of Aruba are mainly used to support aviation forecasting, public weather services, marine forecasting, and issuing of weather alerts. The Meteorological Service of Aruba uses, mostly COMET/MetEd resources for training. The KNMI have currently no plans to buy a GOES-R (GRB) receiving system for their area of responsibility (Bonaire, Statia, and Saba). KNMI will make use of EUMETCAST, and if conditions warrant then the will buy a GRB system. Belize (D. Scott) reported on the heavy dependence of the NMS on internet-based data services. Sources such as RAMSDIS, NOAA and University of Wisconsin are used. EMWIN and GNC-A systems have been installed as back-up. The country benefits from products on EMWIN such as hurricane tracks and surface charts. The GNC-A system is currently not operational. Key applications are operational forecasts for civil aviation, public weather forecasts, and climate services for the wet and dry season. The use of satellite data has been quite limited due to understaffing. More participation in the VLab training is seen as useful. He reported on a lacking sense of urgency in the NMS to prepare for GOES-R ( move just from one website to another ). Brazil INPE (L. Machado) reported on the substantial preparatory effort undertaken by INPE. GVAR stations are to be replaced by GRB, and the terms of reference for the tender are available in Annex I of document RA-3-4-SDR-2/Doc.4.2. The first systems should be in place by August INPE participate in the DBNet, and currently investigate data reception through EUMETCast 10

11 Terrestrial. Main applications of satellite data include nowcasting, weather forecasting, climate assessments, nowcasting and climate research. Training is needed on the use of CSPP-GEO (the GOES-R preprocessing software), lightning products, among others. British Caribbean Territories (BCT) (G. de Souza) briefed that the Cayman Islands were planning the purchase of a GRB station whereas Anguilla, British Virgin Islands, Montserrat, and Turks and Caicos Islands rely on the internet and EMWIN. Capacity building should address image interpretation (for forecasters) and system maintenance (for IT personnel and technicians). The CIMH should provide the bulk of such training. Canada (D. Bradley) reported on preparations for the next-generation weather satellites GOES-R and JPSS. Projects are underway to replace GVAR by GRB direct reception stations, and to upgrade HRPT polar-satellite reception stations to X-band. The NMS has set up a GOES-R readiness project. A PDA account has been established with NOAA, currently testing data latency and using the Pytroll software. Synthetic data for the new systems has been tested in the visualization system NINJO. Applications with satellite data involvement include NWP, public weather services, marine and aviation forecasting, sea ice monitoring and volcanic ash monitoring. Workshops and an online package have been developed for the training of forecasters. Chile (R. Arroyo) reported on the renovation project of the national satellite reception network undertaken by the NMS, to address reception of GOES-R and JPSS. This will start in early 2017 and include antennas, workstations, storage facilities. The bandwidth connecting some remote stations (Easter Island, King George Island, for example) is limited. A station in Antarctica is planned for developing new products, e.g., on sea ice, to inform transport from continent to Antarctica. Partnerships with Argentina, Brazil should be forged. Applications with satellite data involvement include agrometeorology, radiation studies, seasonal forecasts, data assimilation, and operative nowcasting. O. Gonzalez from Colombia could not attend the session, but provided input slides available from the meeting website. Colombia is receiving GOES and polar-orbiting data. Future data reception is planned through GNC-A and possibly internet data services. Costa Rica (M. Garbanzo) first introduced the University of Costa Rica (UCR) the Department for Atmospheric, Oceanic, and Planetary Physics hosts a WMO Regional Training Centre. He then described satellite data reception and visualization tools at institutions in Costa Rica: NMS (IMN), the UCR, and the state power company (ICE). GVAR, GNC-A systems and the Internet Data Distribution network (a UCAR Unidata data distribution server software using a Local Data Manager), are the main routes of data access. NOAA confirmed that there are no restrictions on re-distributing NOAA data and products (credits to NOAA are welcome). UCR would be ready to re-distribute satellite data to other countries. Capacity building mainly needs to address product development by institutions, as well as training on GOES-R. Tools such as McIDAS-V and AWIPS-II should also be introduced to users. He stressed that a regionalization of training modules available in COMET was needed. Ecuador (E. Cruz) reported that an upgrade of the current GVAR satellite reception systems is 11

12 foreseen, but without detailed plans. Some visualization tools were presented. Applications with satellite data involvement include weather monitoring and forecasting, and volcano monitoring. He noted a shortage of technical and scientific staff in the NMS that could be qualified for satellite data reception and applications. Better perspectives were necessary for trained personnel in the NMS. France (T. Labrot) reported on satellite data reception of GOES-15 (in French Polynesia) and GOES-13 (at Lannion, France). Data and products for French overseas departments and territories in the Americas are processed in Toulouse, and transferred via dedicated links. EUMETSAT is planning a service for ABI data through EUMETCast (not at highest resolution; full resolution data reception planned using the PDA). For processing GRB data, the CSPP-GEO software will be used. She lamented the uncertainty around the final position of GOES-R which hindered the planning and ordering of suitable satellite data reception systems. More information about the transition phase was required (e.g., what will happen to the current GOES satellites once GOES-R is operational? Some information was provided by NOAA at this meeting). Applications of satellite data at MeteoFrance include weather forecasting, public weather services, NWP. Peru (Jorge Chira, via skype) reported on the use of GVAR for various users in the country. GOES is also used to broadcast from >200 stations using DCS. internet is used to access other satellite data. It is planned to acquire GNC-A stations, and the terms for the tender are currently written. Peru contemplates to replace the GVAR by data as a service through the internet, and for this purpose, have prioritized their needs for GOES-R baseline products. Satellite Applications using satellite data include public forecasts, hydrometeorological monitoring and weather forecasting. J. Chira evoked the issue of archiving satellite data, and suggested the idea of a regional data storage centre. Options to use private operators of storage are also explored. Regarding access to data from PDA and CLASS, he raised the question whether requests could be customized to regional or local needs, and whether stringent latency requirements could be met through these routes. Peru needs training for IT staff and the resources to hire such personnel. Training will also be needed on the operation of the planned GNC-A station, and in satellite image interpretation. Saint Lucia (A. Joyeux) reported on its reliance on the internet to receive satellite data. A GVAR station in the country was obsolete, and there were issues in financing station upgrades. Looking forward, GRB would be the preferred option but cost of acquisition and maintenance is prohibitive. GNC-A is the currently favoured option, with internet as back-up. He noted that the internet was sometimes unreliable during extreme events. The GTS is used to operationally receive other meteorological data. It was clarified that currently no GOES imagery is put on the GTS, only some GOES wind and GOES temperatures. Applications with satellite data involvement include weather monitoring and forecasting, disaster risk reduction Needs for capacity building and training include data and image interpretation, generation and use of products, and HW/SW maintenance. Trinidad and Tobago (B. Thomas) receives geostationary and polar-orbiting satellite data using GVAR, the internet, and an HRPT system. The NMS commissioned a feasibility study regarding a GOES-R reception system. There are plans to use a satellite data service via the internet. 12

13 Regarding PDA, he voiced the concern whether access will be granted. GNC-A is a back-up option to be considered. Applications with satellite data involvement are weather forecasting, public weather services, and aviation services. Capacity building would be required for the interpretation and use of GOES-R data. Venezuela (J. Caraballo) described the data sources and dissemination mechanisms used by the NMS. The Service receives GOES and polar-orbiting data using GVAR and HRPT systems. Venezuela plans to receive GOES-R data via internet, PDA, and GNC-A which is likely to become the preferred option. Satellite applications include validation of models, weather forecasting, and for education and training. There is an important need for capacity building and training due to imminent retirement of key staff. These include image interpretation, and ocean water quality monitoring (oil spill hazards). K.A. Caesar, for the Caribbean Meteorological Organization (CMO) provided an introduction to the Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) which operates under CMO. CIMH is the training branch of CMO, located in Barbados. A GNC-A has been installed at CIMH and is operational. Among other uses, it provides a risk-reducing backup to other means of data access, a low-cost alternative to the reliance on the internet, for the exchange of training material and access to satellite data, provided NOAA increase their support to GNC-A. However, regional players are still unsure about the advantages of GNC-A, and a focal team should be established. In areas with low connectivity, only downgraded GOES-R data can be access through the internet. She noted that GRB systems were quite expensive for some countries (O(100K USD)). Climate monitoring: use a new platform (Dewetra) to analyse data, can ingest data from GNC-A. Dewetra represents a real-time data and information integrated system for hydro-meteorological risk forecasting and disaster risk reduction, based on continuous download of imagery and other data from National Hurricane Centre. Hydrology is another area where CIMH is active in application development and training (CEOS flood pilot, using Radarsat). There is a strong call for training in the region: many key staff are soon to retire, and many countries will have to learn how to utilize GOES-R data. The WMO Virtual Laboratory for Education and Training in Satellite Meteorology (VLab), of which CIMH is a Centre of Excellence for training, offers a range of events to introduce GOES-R, JPSS, and other next-generation satellite data, in all WMO languages. Modules from COMET/MetEd and EUMETSAT are used to provide training. Regional focus groups provide monthly weather discussions across Latin America and the Caribbean (and in other regions). 9.2 Identifying efficiency gains across the Region(s) (All Discussion, 15 ) The Group discussed this topic as part of the break-out sessions. 10. BREAK-OUT GROUP SESSION 1 : Technical data reception solutions The Group collected information for an overview of GOES-R satellite data access mechanisms, and processing and visualization tools. The draft was circulated with participants for comments, and is given in Annex 6. G. de Souza stressed that NMS with responsibility for certain services (e.g., meteorological watch offices) and regional / international obligations (e.g., for aviation services) have to take these into account when deciding on technical solutions to access satellite data. He said that cost recovery 13

14 mechanisms existed regarding some obligations, e.g., in the aviation services field. 11. TRAINING ON GOES-R DATA AND PRODUCTS J. Daniels, W. MacKenzie, and A. Terborg (all NOAA) gave a comprehensive overview of GOES-R its capabilities, applications, and training: GOES-R role in NOAA s mission; GOES-R sensors and data products; GOES-R Geostationary Lightning Mapper (GLM) and Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) products and applications; GOES-R Proving Ground and Product Demonstrations at the various NOAA testbeds; and Training activities GOES-R L2+ Products and Applications (J. Daniels, 60 ) 11.2 GOES-R Data Applications and Examples (A. Terborg, W. MacKenzie, J. Daniels, 60 ) J. Daniels, GOES-R Algorithm Development Team leader, described GOES-R contribution to the NOAA mission. Launch date is scheduled for 4 November He showed the enhanced capabilities of ABI versus the current GOES imager, and the new geostationary lightning mapper (GLM) capability. ABI in the (standard) flex scan mode 3 will provide scans of the Continental U.S. every 5 minutes, and full-disk scans every 15 minutes. A key challenge will be to turn the wealth of data and products available from GOES-R into added value in applications ( realizing the last mile ). The applications addressed by GOES-R are forecasting, data assimilation/modelling, environmental monitoring, and hazard detection. W. MacKenzie introduced GLM and benefits of lightning mapping. The GLM will measure total lightning intensity and cannot distinguish cloud-to-cloud from cloud-to-ground lightning. Groundbased lightning mapping arrays are able to track lightning strikes up to the ground. In generating the GLM product (which will not be gridded, but point-based), a distinction is made between events, groups, and flashes, using spatial, temporal, and intensity thresholds. A challenge is to visualize the product (the 20s update rate is too fast for many forecasters). The data will have to the preprocessed to be visualized on a map. Location of flashes is calculated by a location average weighted by event intensity. J. Daniels showed example for the baseline products from ABI, and product precedence charts (e.g., dependencies for deriving derived motion winds). A. Terborg showed examples where GOES-R proxy imagery and products are proving useful to forecasters. She maintains a Satellite Liaison Blog to discuss these case studies, and to bridge the gap between product developers, and forecasters. A train the trainers approach helps where peers are used to teach other forecasters. Uncertainties will be documented as part of each GOES-R after the validation phase, and discussed in dedicated workshops with users. Error propagation in derived products will also be addressed Future GOES-R COMET Training Materials (A. Terborg, 60 ) A. Terborg also briefed on training resources available on GOES-R in English and Spanish (on the COMET/MetEd site). Mini-foundational lessons in support of NWS GOES-R training are only available in English GOES-R and radio-frequency protection E. Madsen provided information on U.S. spectrum issues and Earth observation, on behalf of the NOAA experts on radiofrequency issues. The commercial wireless broadband operators are 14

15 expanding into bands that are adjacent or overlap with bands for Earth observation. Studies are underway. This particularly affects GEO L-band frequency bands: The MHz L-band has been auctioned off in the U.S. and is being used for polar-orbiting satellite direct readout, and for HRIT/EMWIN. The band is not yet in operation; protection zones are planned around U.S. federal sites. Shared use of the MHz band by wireless broadband operators may affect GRB. Proposed sharing of bandwidth in range MHz may affect JASON telemetry. These are items on the current agenda of the World Radio Conference 2019 organized by ITU. Proliferation of small satellite constellation with hundreds of satellites in non-geo orbit has the potential to create interference to existing civil EO satellite systems - Problem will be frequency overlap and orbit geometry dependent - Analysis underway regarding potential concerns for DCS reception International issues - Considerations for ITU agenda items for the upcoming WRC 2019 cover a wide range of topics of interest to civil satellites The Group stressed that Members should ensure protection of the radiofrequency bands that they require for satellite data reception (and other meteorological applications), through their national regulators. RECOMMENDATION 3: Members of RA-3-4-SDR should work with their national regulatory agencies to ensure the protection of the radiofrequency bands that they require for satellite data reception (and other meteorological applications). Details on how National Meteorological or Hydrological Services can be effectively engaged in national and international coordination of radio frequencies is available online in the form of "A Guide to NMHS on Radiofrequency Coordination 1 " and a WMO/ITU Handbook on the "Use of radio spectrum for meteorology: weather, water and climate monitoring and prediction 2. Frequency management and protection are particularly important for satellite activities in general, and Space Agencies have established the Space Frequency Coordination Group (SFCG) to coordinate their activities in this respect General Discussion & Questions (All, 60 ) Several questions related to radiofrequency management were addressed Discussion on GOES-R Products in HRIT/Geonetcast (All, 60 ) This item was covered by a break-out group session (item 12). 12. BREAK-OUT GROUP SESSION 2 Participants met in two separate break-out groups to discuss (i) training needs of the Region, and (ii) Update of Satellite Data Requirements and Use of GNC-A Bandwidth. The topic of transitioning from EUMETCast-Americas (ceasing operations in December 2016) to GEONETCast-Americas was also addressed

16 13. SUMMARY OF RESULTS (Reports from break-out groups) Transition from EUMETCast-Americas to GNC-A A procedure is available describing this task, from the EUMETSAT website 3. There are some cost implications to purchase a new license for the ingestion software; most of the equipment can be reused; upgrade of the receiver is recommended. No systematic transition support to EUMETCast-Americas station operators has yet occurred (the list of stations has not been made available from EUMETSAT). Training E. Madsen presented results of the break-out group on training needs and resources (see Annex 7 for the final result of the break-out, finalized post-meeting). S. Bojinski suggested a clear mapping of needs against training mechanisms/resources. A Regionbased training programme should be developed over the next year, addressing the training needs of forecasters, technicians, researchers and trainers. L. Machado asked whether the country reports have been considered in formulating training needs; this is not yet the case. D. Scott supported the idea of a one-year training curriculum, aiming at training needs for forecasters, technicians, and researchers K. Caesar mentioned several planned activities over the next six months: website, training programme. G. de Souza cautioned the upcoming RA IV session as a venue for a training event. It needs to be explored whether the technical conference associated with the RA IV session could be used for training purposes. A. Martis stressed the utility of WMO meetings to collocate technical conference and training events. The training plan and specific activities thereof should be developed by the time of the next meeting in July 2016, and if possible within the next three months. Training should specifically address countries in Central America, some of which are poorly represented in the Group. This is a topic to be addressed by the Regional Association and the heads of NMS. ACTION 1: RA-3-4-SDR Training Task Team 4 (Lead: Kathy-Ann Caesar and Estela Collini) to formulate a two-year training plan for the Region, taking into account training needs of the Region (at the level of forecasters, IT personnel, trainers and researchers), and using existing resources and events. This agenda should include recommendations on new training resources or mechanisms that are deemed required. By 15 Nov The task team on training identified at the first session of the Group includes: Estela Collini (Argentina), Pedzi Girigori (Curaçao), Bryan Thomas (Trinidad and Tobago), Simone Costa (Brazil), Glendell De Souza (BCT), Evelyn Quiros, Eladio Solano (Costa Rica), Homero Jacome (Ecuador), Kathy-Ann Caesar (CMO), Francisco Argenal (Honduras), Marck Oduber (Aruba). 16

17 Update of Satellite Data Requirements and Use of GNC-A Bandwidth NOAA have increased their support to GEONETCast-Americas to assist the Region in the transition to GOES-R and JPSS. This results in increased bandwidth of 6.7Mbps (previously 2.1Mbps). P. Seymour confirmed that recommendations from the Group will have first priority in being implemented on GNC-A. WMO stressed that some countries will be relying on the GNC-A data stream for operational purposes, and expect that the decisions taken by the Group will become a reality. L. Machado presented a proposal for distributing GOES-R data and products over the available GNC-A bandwidth. Based on this proposal, the Break-out Group decided on the GOES-R channels and L2 products that should be added to the GNC-A data service. These would take up almost 4.7 Mbps, or about 69% of the total available bandwidth (see Annex 8). P. Seymour recommended that the Group not aim at fully using the available bandwidth, to leave room for spikes in data rates. The evolution recommended by the Group of the GNC-A data services is illustrated in Figure 1. GIFS, ISCS and other non-satellite GTS data will stay on the stream, and ~5% of the bandwidth should be reserved strategically, for peak data needs (e.g., when invoking the International Charter Space and Major Disasters). It needs to be clarified how imagery sectors can be cut (rectangles or otherwise) and distributed via GNC-A (which itself uses the PDA for streaming data). This way the data volume to be transmitted via GNC-A can be significantly reduced (e.g., by excluding CONUS and/or Canada). RECOMMENDATION 4: NOAA to clarify in what way sectors can be made available on GNC-A. The current list of SDR requirements has 402 entries, equivalent to about 4Mbps. Priority 1 data amount to about 2.5Mbps. P. Seymour indicated that there is a possibility of even more bandwidth to be available for GNC-A in the future. Rapid responses by GEONETCast-Americas users may from time to time be required when deciding on broadcasting data. RECOMMENDATION 5: To ensure rapid interaction between NOAA as the operator of GNC-A and users, one or more RA-3-4-SDR representatives (to be determined) should be members of the GEONETCast-Americas User Group. NOAA confirmed that simulated and proxy data can be made available via GNC-A for all GOES-R imagery and products that have been selected by the RA-3-4-SDR. The planned data dissemination scenario is valid irrespective of the final latitude position of GOES-R. 17

18 Figure 1: Schematic use of bandwidth on GEONETCast-Americas over time with respect to the availability of GOES-R data. Satellite data and products (in red) represent those recommended by RA-3-4-SDR (Priority 1 only). It will be a task for the RA-3-4-SDR to advise on the removal of current priority datasets, once GOES-R data are available. Other matters Working Modalities of the Group The Group agreed that regular teleconferences should continue to be held, roughly every 2 months; the next one should be organized in October before the launch of GOES-R. To obtain participation from users active in other GEO SBAs, for the next two conferences, the AmeriGEOSS focal point should encourage participation by AmeriGEOSS user representatives. A next meeting of the Group could be held in conjunction with the NOAA 2017 Satellite Conference: Week 17 July, City College New York, NYC, USA. 14. CONCLUSIONS Participants concluded that the meeting was highly successful and productive. At the cusp of a new era in satellite meteorology for the Americas, participants expressed their hope that this meeting was an important milestone in preparing the Region for using the new satellites. 18

19 The co-chairs and WMO expressed their sincere thanks to A. Martis, the PR of Curaçao and St. Maarten, for having hosted the session. They were grateful to NOAA for having participated strongly in the session. 15. ADJOURN The co-chairs adjourned the meeting at on Thursday, 8 September

20 ANNEX 1: LIST OF PARTICIPANTS MACHADO, Luiz Augusto Toledo (Co-Chair) National Institute for Space Research (INPE) Av. dos Astronautas Jardim da Granja São José dos Campos SP , Brazil Tel : Center for Weather Forecasting and Climate Studies (CPTEC) Rodovia Presidente Dutra, Km CACHOEIRA PAULISTA/SP Brazil Tel.: Fax: luiz.machado@inpe.br ARROYO, Rodrigo BRADLEY, David (Co-Chair) CABANERIT CARABALLO, Julio CAESAR, Kathy-Ann Meteorological Service of Chile Avenida Portales N 3450, Casilla 140 Sucursal Santiago Chile Tel: Fax: rarroyo@meteochile.cl Meteorological Service of Canada (MSC) Environment Canada 373 Sussex Drive Otawa, Ontario, Canada Tel: + 1 (613) david.bradley@canada.ca National Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (INAMEH) National Highway Baruta - Hoyo de la Puerta Parque Tecnologico Sartanejas Baruta Estado Miranda, Caracas Venezuela Tel: +58 (212) / Tel : Fax: + 58 (212) jcabanerit@inameh.gob.ve Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology Husbands, St. James BB Barbados Tel: Fax: kacaesar@cimh.edu.bb (Co-chair VLab Management Group (VLMG)) 20

21 CHIRA, Jorge (by skype) COLLINI, Estela CRUZ, Edison DANIELS, Jaime GARBANZO, Marcial HAIME, Pieter JOYEUX, Andre Director of Information Technologies and Communication Office, National Office of Meteorology & Hydrology (SENAMHI) Jirón Cahuide 785 Jesús María, Lima 11 Peru Tel : Fax: jchira@senamhi.gob.pe Servicio de Hidrografía Naval (SHN) National Meteorological Service (SMN) 25 de Mayo 658, Capital Federal CP1002 ABN Buenos Aires 1002 Argentina Fax: estela.collini@gmail.com National Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (INAMH) Nuñez de Vela N36-15 Y Corea Quito Ecuador Tel: ecruz@inamhi.gob.ec NOAA/NESDIS Centre for Satellite Applications and Research (STAR) Programme Manager GOES-R Algorithm Working Group Tel: jaime.daniels@noaa.gov University of Costa Rica Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics RTC and CoE San José, Costa Rica Tel : + (506) Tel : + (506) mgarbanzopcm@gmail.com Systems Engineer Meteorological Service of Curaçao Tel: haime.pieter@meteo.cw Saint Lucia Meteorological Services Meteorologist I Ministry of Infrastructure, Port Services, Energy and Labour UNION, CASTRIES Saint Lucia Tel: / Fax: andre.joyeux@govt.lc 21

22 KARLSON, Daniel (Dann) LABROT, Tiphaine MACKENZIE, Wayne MADSEN, Eric MARTIS, Albert (PR) ODUBER, Marck RODRIGUEZ, Diana SEYMOUR, Paul NOAA/NESDIS International Affairs 1335 East-West Highway, Rm 7323 Silver Spring, MD, USA Tel: Centre de Météorologie Spatiale Avenue de Lorraine Lannion, Cedex, France Tel: Fax: tiphaine.labrot@meteo.fr NOAA/NESDIS GOES-R L2 Product Area Lead Tel: wayne.mackenzie@noaa.gov NOAA/NESDIS International Affairs 1335 East-West Highway Silver Spring, MD, USA Tel: eric.madsen@noaa.gov Meteorological Department Sear Mahuma Curaçao Tel: albert.martis@meteo.cw Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute (KNMI) Utrechtseweg 297 P.O. Box AE De Bilt Netherlands Tel: Fax: marck.oduber@meteo.aw National Meteorological Service 25 de Mayo 658, Capital Federal, CP1002 ABN Buenos Aires Argentina Tel: Fax: diamarinarodriguez@gmail.com DMC@SMN.gov.ar NESDIS Office of Satellite and Product Operations (OSPO) National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE 1325 East-West Highway,

23 Silver Spring Maryland United States Tel: Fax: paul.seymour@noaa.gov SCOTT, Dwayne SOUZA, Diego SOUZA, Glendell de TERBORG, Amanda National Meteorological Service of Belize Philip Goldson International Airport PO Box 717 Ladyville Belize Phone Number: Fax Number: dscott@hydromet.gov.bz National Institute for Space Research (INPE) Av. dos Astronautas Jardim da Granja São José dos Campos SP , Brazil Tel : diego.souza@cptec.inpe.br Caribbean Meteorological Organization 27 O Connor Street, Woodbrook P.O. Box 461 Port-of-Spain Trinidad and Tobago Tel: Fax: gde_souza@cmo.org.tt NOAA/AWC & University of Wisconsin CIMSS 7220 NW IDW RM, Rm 101 Kansas City, MO, USA Tel: amanda.terborg@noaa.gov THOMAS, Bryan Meteorological Services Division P.O. Box 2141 National Mail Centre Piarco Trinidad and Tobago Phone Number: Fax Number: bry46an@yahoo.com 23

24 WMO Representative BOJINSKI, Stephan Scientific Officer, Satellite Utilization and Products, WMO Space Programme Phone Number:

25 ANNEX 2: ADDRESS BY THE MINISTER OF TRAFFIC, TRANSPORT AND URBAN PLANNING, GOVERNMENT OF CURACAO, H.E. MS SUSANNE CAMELIA RöMER Date: 5 September 2016 Time: 09:00 Location: Renaissance Hotel, Willemstad, Curaçao Co Chairs: Mr. Luiz Machado, INPE, Brazil Mr. David Bradley, Meteorological Service Canada Mr. Stephan Bojinski, WMO Satellite Utilization and Products Division Mr. Albert Martis, Permanent Representative of Curacao and St. Maarten with WMO. On behalf of the Government of Curaçao and myself as Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning, I want to welcome you all at the opening of the second session of the Coordination Group on Satellite Data Requirements for North America, Central America, the Caribbean and South America. As I understand, environmental satellites are a very important component within the totality of weather monitoring systems and a very essential part of the in frastructure of a National Meteorological Service. As almost no country alone can build and maintain an environmental satellite of this magnitude, due to the cost of operation, cooperation between the countries is extremely important. In this regard, from its establishment, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has promoted the coordination and development of programmes to encourage syn ergy among the countries that can operate such a system and countries that can benefit from the system. As the Minister responsible of our Meteorological Department, I would like to thank the government of the U.S.A. for making the data of the GOES satellite available for us in the Caribbean. Before that time, we had hardly any information of an approaching hurricane. Now that the GOES N (13) and GOES P (15) are approaching the end of their operational lives, a new GOES R will be launched at the beginning of November this year. This next generation GOES satellite will make available 34 meteorological, solar and space weather products with high resolution. This is five times more data compared with the existent GOES. Moreover, the time resolution will not be half an hour but 5 10 minutes. So we are talking of Big Data. In order to process all the data to generate the products in a timely manner, a very sophisticated work station and computer service will be needed in the National Meteorological Services. So, you have a big task in front of you on how to deal with big data. I am sure that during this meeting all the aspects will be discussed, including training for the forecaster on how to manage a large amount of products. In conclusion, I wish all of you a very constructive session and that the resulting document will serve as an outstanding guideline for the Members of the WMO, and that each Meteorological Service will have a robust document to convince the decision makers that a particular Earth station will be needed. I am very excited already with what the new and high resolution products that the GOES R satellite will provide on my iwatch. Thanks to all of you for your attention! 25

26 ANNEX 3: AGENDA 26

27 27

28 28

29 ANNEX 4: MEMBERS OF THE COORDINATION GROUP FOR SATELLITE DATA REQUIREMENTS IN REGION III AND IV (STATUS: October 2016) Name Institution Country Estela Collini Servicio de Hidrografía Naval (SHN) and Servicio Meteorológico Nacional (SMN) Argentina Marck Oduber Meteorological Department, Aruba The Netherlands (Aruba) Dwayne Scott Belize Meteorological Service Belize Luiz Augusto Machado (Co-Chair) Wagner de Aragão Bezerra Glendell De Souza Kathy-Ann Caesar Center for Weather Forecasting and Climate Studies (CPTEC), National Institute for Space Research (INPE) National Institute of Meteorology (INMET) Caribbean Meteorological Organization Caribbean Meteorological Organization VLab Representative Brazil Brazil British Caribbean Territories (BCT) British Caribbean Territories (BCT) David Bradley (Co- Meteorological Service of Canada Canada Rodrigo Arroyo Dirección Meteorológica de Chile Chile Olga Gonzalez Institute of Hydrology, Meteorology and Environmental Studies (IDEAM) Colombia Marcial Garbanzo University of Costa Rica Costa Rica Fitzroy Pascal Dominica Meteorological Service Dominica Homero Jacome Jorge Chira Instituto Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología (INAMHI) Servicio Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología (SENAMHI) Ecuador Peru Venantius Descartes Saint Lucia Meteorological Service Saint Lucia Bryan Thomas Trinidad and Tobago Meteorological Service Trinidad and Tobago Julio Cabanerit Caraballo National Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (INAMEH) Venezuela AmeriGEOSS FP Angelica Gutierrez- Magness Satellite operators NOAA NWS, US GEO USA Paul Seymour NOAA NESDIS USA Sally Wannop EUMETSAT International 29

30 ANNEX 5: TERMS OF REFERENCE OF THE COORDINATION GROUP FOR SATELLITE DATA REQUIREMENTS IN REGION III AND IV 1. The Group consists of a representative number of members from the satellite data user community in the Region, joined, as associate members, by satellite data providers and WMO. The Group is chaired by one or two representatives from key satellite data user organizations of the Region. 2. The Group maintains an updated list of satellite data and products available to the Region through existing dissemination services. Data and products shall be classified by categories of variables and derived products. 3. The Groups regularly reviews sources of regional needs and undertakes, as needed, further information gathering, such as surveys, to ensure that views of WMO Members in the Region are adequately represented. 4. The Group analyses the requirements for each relevant category of product, and identifies which requirements are not adequately met by existing services. The unmet requirements are prioritized, taking into account: a. The applications supported and their impact b. The number and representativeness of the users c. The status of the required data or products d. The quality and suitability of the required data or products. 5. In summary the Group formulates recommendations pertaining to: a. Existing satellite data/products (with detailed references) to be included in existing distribution services, or moving a product from one service to another, or assigning lower priority to an existing product (or removing it if obsolete) b. Amendments of existing products or development of new products c. Evolution (upgrade, or consolidating) of data dissemination means, or other (e.g. training, tools, user equipment) d. Short-term action to implement these recommendations 6. The Group maintains a dialogue with satellite data providers of relevance to the Region, and other partners as needed, to ensure that its recommendations are implemented. 7. The Group uses the W MO Procedure for Documenting Regional Requirements for Satellite Data Access and Exchange, for guidance. 8. The Group meets in person at least every two years, and, to ensure continuity, works through collaborative tools during the intersessional period. 30

31 ANNEX 6: Overview of GOES-R Data Access Mechanisms, Processing and Visualization Tools, and Selected Providers Data Access Direct Readout GRB o Harris o Seaspace o EEC Telespace o Global Science & Technology (GST) - DirectMet o Quorum o Scisys o Global Imaging Key features Full res L1b: ABI data GLM Space weather L2 products, as specified in contract 31Mbps Typical Country requirements to be met Processing of L1b into products Depending on country needs and obligations HRIT/EMWIN o Global Imaging o Dartcom o Microcom o Scisys Continuity of EMWIN and DCS, including watches and warnings Some HRIT imagery (400kbps), reduced resolution Imagery for situational awareness 1-1.2m dish, LNB, receiver, computer, visualization SW Stable turn-key systems with est d support Satellite-based GEONETCast-Americas o EEC Telespace o custom o Global Imaging o Knightsky llc o Systems Strategies and Analysis (USA) o Scisys o Dartcom Full-disc GOES Imagery and L2 products, depending on user requirements Multi-format data New system, support structure evolving Coverage of IS-21 satellite (all of the Americas except northern parts of Canada, Alaska, Easter Island) DVB-S based, scalable 6.7Mbps Risk reduction in transitioning from GOES to GOES-R Back-up system Primary system, depending on needs and resources NOAAport CONUS content Limited value for Central and South America DVB-S2, SES Mbps Mostly for US-based users Internet PDA o NOAA Full res L1b (ABI data, GLM, Space weather) 31 For all users Good connectivity

32 ation/about/access.html L2 products, depending on connectivity constraints; No DCS required (>31Mbps) Subsetting and downscaling of selected products possible Approval by NOAA required to obtain access, proven need for NRT data IDD/LDM o Unidata Interned data distribution network hosted by UCAR, used by academia in U.S. and Central America Good connectivity required Private Data as a Service o BlueSky (USA) --- o Harris Full data in principle Customized data service depending on contract Push service Hardware and viz SW 300+ Good connectivity required Cloud o o Harris GST Use cloud to view imagery for a web service Recurring monthly cost Tools responsibility of user 4-6Mbps Medium connectivity CLASS NOAA Non real-time, retrieve archived data using client visualization software Can replace need to archive large amounts of NOAA data Subsetting and downscaling of selected products possible Free service unless for very large data requests Medium connectivity Webservices general Low-bandwidth access to imagery and products Part of a visualization package (e.g. GEarth) Not real-time Situational awareness GIFS no GOES-R imagery Web sites NWP ftp-based services, mostly model data in GRIB format GTS Point-to-point Data Processing / Visualization Software CSPP-GEO McIDAS-V Key features Free; For processing GRB data Free; processing 32 Typical country requirements to be met

33 SigmaCast NCL AWIPS-II Pytroll VisualWeather NINJO SmartMet TeraScan WxConnect Matlab netcdf4, GEOTIFF Free; processing multiple formats including netcdf4 Designed for GEONETCast-Americas Free Free: visualization system used by U.S. NWS Free; processing software Commercial Commercial Commercial Commercial Commercial Commercial 33

34 ANNEX 7: RA-3-4-SDR Training Task Team Recommendations for Region III and IV on Satellite Data Utilization and Preparation to Next-Generation Satellites (in response to ACTION 1: RA-3-4-SDR Training Task Team (Lead: Kathy-Ann Caesar and Estela Collini) to formulate a two-year training plan for the Region, taking into account training needs of the Region (at the level of forecasters, IT personnel, trainers and researchers), and using existing resources and events. This agenda should include recommendations on new training resources or mechanisms that are deemed required. By 15 Nov ) The following is a (draft) summary of the recommendations for the next 12 to 24 months for the SDR Group: 1- The CORE SDR Education Task Team be identified as follows: a. Kathy-Ann Caesar (kacaesar@cimh.edu.bb) b. Eric Madsen (eric.madsen@noaa.gov) c. Estela COLLINI (estela.collini@gmail.com) d. Amanda Terborg (amanda.terborg@noaa.gov) e. Bryan Thomas (bry46an@yahoo.com) f. Marcial Garbanzo-Salas (marcial.garbanzo@ucr.ac.cr) g. Glendell De Souza (GDe_Souza@cmo.org.tt) 2- The team review the training needs identified on the presentations for the SDR members. However the immediate training needs were defined for: a. Forecasters needed immediate awareness of GOES-R, what will be available and use of products: After the forecasters complete the training courses, they should be able to 1) understand the differences between legacy GOES and GOES R observations; 2) interpret and utilize GOES-R ABI imagery and derived products in the preparation of NWS forecasts and warnings; 3) utilize the GLM in forecast and warning operations; and 4) understand the fundamentals of RGB satellite products techniques and apply these to the identification of meteorological phenomena. (LeRoy Spayd Jr.) b. Services will need to define and identify their IT/Data managers/hardware technicians. These personnel will be the bridge between the receipt, the delivery, development and usage of the GOES-R products. c. Scientists and Researchers will require training and be the ones to build on the regional products and future growth in product development. 3- Identify training resources. There is currently a wealth of introductory and foundation training sources and the SDR Training recommends the following: a. Online training: COMET UNIDATA WMO CoE COSTA RICA/ CIMH/BRAZIL, others; b. Hands-on training requiring completion of COMET models before course at: CIMH; WMO Centers of Excellence, Conjunction with other events. c. Other training resources: VLab, VISIT, WMO Global Campus, EUMETSAT, NOAA 4- The team to develop list of training events: a. The SDR-TTT recommends the following timeline: i. The Services and their trainers must create a National Satellite Training Plan, which will identify their training needs and timeframe for completion. ii. Next six months Services to ensure that their forecasters and other relevant stakeholders (identified for specific training) complete the Foundation Online 34

35 Training courses (Appendix 1). This will be a prerequisite to participate in face to face courses. iii. Next 12 months Services to nominate a Person who will be provided with the necessary satellite interpretation and manipulation training to provide in-house training within their respective services. iv. The National Satellite Training Plan must be submitted to the SDR-TTT if assistance is required in developing and/or identifying further training courses. v. IT training needs to be identified based on the user needs and priorities 1. Hardware - It is expected that the Vendors, who provide the receiving hardware will provide training in use and maintenance of the equipment. 2. Software: Management, Manipulation and Scripting: a. This is an extremely important area to develop since it involves the links of the received data and the manipulation and delivery to the users. Unfortunately it may be the area where there is a small pool for experts; b. There will be a need for the team to identify expertize in this area. 3. Visualization software training: a. There are various visualization software available all of which can be adapted for use by the regional service. i. AWIPS used by the US NWS Service ii. SIFT a tool developed by University of Wisconsin iii. SIGMAcast a tool developed by INPE Brazil 5- Contact regional Institutions a. The following regional training Institutions will need to be informed on the training needs and develop collaborative programs to assist in further training and product development; b. Training centres should agree to their participation in GOES-R training events and publish schedule of intended events. c. Regional Training Centres: i. Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology ii. University of Costa Rica iii. National University of Colombia iv. National University of Mexico v. University of Baja California (Mexico) vi. University of La Serena (Chile) vii. INPE viii. Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Science (DCAO), FCEyN, UBA, Argentina: Phd and Post Phd course (in Spanish): Sensoramiento Remoto de la Atmósfera desde el Espacio, contact: lvidal@smn.gov.ar ix. National Meteorological Service of Argentina: Course of Environmental Teledetection/ Curso de Teledeteccion Ambiental (in Spanish), contact: dmr@smn.gov.ar. 35

36 Appendix to Annex 7 List of Foundation Training Modules 1. COMET FOUNDATION MODULES GOES-R Satellites Orientation Course Languages: English, Spanish Completion Time: 3-4 h Topics: Satellite Meteorology Description This self-paced distance learning course introduces forecasters, students, researchers, and other interested learners to the capabilities, products, and applications anticipated with the next-generation GOES-R satellites. The three core lessons in this course are: GOES-R: Benefits of Next-Generation Environmental Monitoring GOES-R ABI: Next Generation Satellite Imaging GOES-R GLM: Introduction to the Geostationary Lightning Mapper Optional Topics/Modules o o o o o o o o o o Choose based on your need or interest Multispectral Satellite Applications: RGB Products Explained Optional Languages: English, Spanish Publish Date: Last Updated On: Skill Level: 2 Topics: Satellite Meteorology (8 reviews) Multispectral Satellite Applications: Monitoring the Wildland Fire Cycle, 2nd EditionOptional Languages: English, Spanish Publish Date: Skill Level: 2 Topics: Fire Weather, Satellite Meteorology (0 reviews) How Satellite Observations Impact NWP Optional Languages: English Publish Date: Last Updated On: Skill Level: 2 Topics: Numerical Modeling (NWP), Satellite Meteorology (2 reviews) 36

37 o o o o o o Satellite Meteorology: GOES Channel Selection V2 Optional Languages: English, Spanish Publish Date: Skill Level: 2 Topics: Satellite Meteorology (0 reviews) Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI): What s Different from the GOES-R Advanced Baseline Imager (ABI) Optional Languages: English Publish Date: Skill Level: 1 Topics: Satellite Meteorology (1 review) 2. NOAA Himawari training 1-day workshop that focuses mainly on the hands on work. (Courtesy Amanda Terborg Terborg). This is designed to address the inherent busy shift schedules of forecasters. It is hands on training. It is a shift, or 8 hours long, and it contains both Himawari foundational training as well as hands on applications. The latter can be tailored specifically to each National Center or office. Note that lab or hands on time makes up over half of the schedule. The Course example is list below. And can be adapted by regional training centres 8:00 AM Introduction 15 min 8:15 AM ABI/AHI spectral bands 30 min 8:45 AM SIFT lab exercise 2 hr 10:45 AM Weighting Function/Water Vapor 45 min 11:30 AM Lunch break 1 hr 12:30 PM National Center Application SIFT and/or N-AWIPS lab ~1.5-2 hr 2:30 PM RGB Composites - 30 min 3:00 PM RGB lab exercise - 30 min 3:30 PM Discussion/wrap-up - 30 min 4:00 PM Adjourn 3. VISITView Foundation Course Recommendation A list of modules that have been used to develop a Foundation Course in Preparation for GOES-R have been prepared by the CIRA Visitview in collaboration with various NOAA stakeholders. The community external to NOAA will be able to find the content via a SHyMet web page. The site will be official in November after GOES-R launch. 37

38 ANNEX 8: RA-3-4-SDR RECOMMENATION FOR GOES-R DATA AND PRODUCTS TO BE ADDED TO GEONETCast-AMERICAS