Merritt Island, FL, USA - June 25, 2024

A milestone in meteorological technology was achieved today as the GOES-U satellite, the latest in NOAA’s advanced geostationary series, successfully launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon Heavy rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The satellite, equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation, aims to revolutionize weather forecasting capabilities across the Western Hemisphere.

Shortly after liftoff at 5:26 p.m. EDT, the launch team confirmed the deployment of GOES-U’s solar array panels, marking the beginning of its journey to geostationary orbit approximately 22,236 miles above Earth. Once in position, GOES-U will be renamed GOES-19 and undergo rigorous testing to validate its instruments before assuming the GOES-East operational role by mid-2025, replacing its predecessor, GOES-16.

"GOES-U will combine high-definition imagery with enhanced speed and precision in real-time weather observations," stated NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. "These advancements will significantly improve the accuracy and timeliness of weather forecasts crucial for public safety and environmental monitoring well into the 2030s."

A groundbreaking feature of GOES-U is its inclusion of the first operational satellite solar coronagraph (CCOR-1), designed to detect hazardous space weather that could disrupt critical infrastructure like power grids and communication systems. This addition underscores NOAA’s commitment to advancing space weather forecasting capabilities.

"This satellite will enhance our ability to monitor severe weather phenomena such as hurricanes, wildfires, and geomagnetic storms," highlighted NOAA National Weather Service Director Ken Graham, emphasizing its critical role in safeguarding communities from natural disasters.

GOES-U completes the GOES-R series, a visionary initiative initiated over two decades ago, and is poised to serve until the late 2030s. Its operational synergy with GOES-18 in the GOES-West position will provide comprehensive coverage from Africa’s west coast to New Zealand, and from Alaska to Antarctica.

The GOES-R Series Program, a collaborative effort between NOAA and NASA, manages satellite operations and data dissemination globally. NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center oversees spacecraft acquisition and instrument development, while Lockheed Martin and L3Harris Technologies contribute satellite design, construction, and ground system support.

Looking ahead, NOAA and NASA are advancing the GeoXO (Geostationary Extended Observations) mission to further enhance environmental monitoring capabilities, addressing evolving global challenges in climate and public health.

For ongoing updates on GOES-U and its impact on weather forecasting, stay tuned as it continues its mission to advance scientific understanding and protect communities worldwide.