The Joint Polar Satellite System (JPSS) is our Nation’s next generation polar-orbiting operational environmental satellite system. JPSS is a collaborative program between NOAA and its acquisition agent NASA.

"Along with the skill of our meteorologists, polar-orbiting satellites, like NPP, are critical to the success of our forecasts three days out and beyond. They [polar satellite observations] are the backbone of the global Earth observing system and global weather prediction capability," says National Weather Service Director Dr. Louis Uccellini on Page 13 of the NESDIS 2012 Annual Report.

Information about our planet is vital for the ability to plan, predict, respond and protect our Nation’s lives and property. JPSS Science is critical to accomplishing this primary goal.

NOAA and NASA work together in a joint JPSS Program Office, which oversees the development of instruments, spacecraft, ground system and science. In addition to NOAA and NASA, JPSS is supported by a large number of contracting companies, academic institutions and research organizations.