The ATMS instrument on the NOAA-20 and Suomi-NPP satellites is one of about 17 microwave sounders that have been orbiting Earth since the first one launched in November 1978. And it has a profound, behind-the-scenes impact on our daily lives, especially when extreme weather is approaching.

About NESDIS

National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) provides secure and timely access to global environmental data and information from satellites and other sources to promote and protect the Nation's security, environment, economy, and quality of life.

About JPSS Program

The Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) is the Nation's new generation polar-orbiting operational environmental satellite system. JPSS is a collaborative program between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and its acquisition agent, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). This interagency effort is the latest generation of U.S. polar-orbiting, non-geosynchronous environmental satellites.