Program: EOS
Earth Observing System
The Earth Observing System is a multi-mission program with the objective of
acquiring the geophysical, chemical, and biological information necessary for
intense study of planet Earth. A scientific research effort is underway to
ensure that the planning and execution of the mission fulfills its intended
purpose. An EOS data and information system will build up over 10 years and
then function for at least 20 years to allow accurate modeling of the processes
that control the environment.
The Earth Observing System (EOS) program involves the operation of numerous
instruments on multiple spacecraft placed in polar and mid-inclination orbits
in support of multiple disciplines within the Earth science user community.
The EOS mission is composed of several series of flights beginning with the EOS
AM-1 flight from the AM series. The other EOS series include PM, LALT (Laser
Altimetry), and CHEM (Chemistry) flights. Each spacecraft with exception of
LALT has a projected lifetime of 5 years with operational goal of 6 years. The
Canadian Space Agency (CSA), the European Space Agency (ESA) and the Ministry
of International Trade Industry (MITI) of Japan are planning Earth observing
missions that complement the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA) program. In addition, they are also supplying instruments on selected
EOS flights.
http://eospso.gsfc.nasa.gov/