AMS Conference 2017

Smallsats provide opportunities and challenges for weather data
As companies developing commercial constellations of satellites to provide weather data argue the industry is on the cusp of an information revolution, others cautioned there are still key issues to be addressed regarding the use and access to such data.

New weather satellite performing well in early tests
The first in a new generation of geostationary orbit weather satellites is performing well in its initial post-launch tests, although months of work lie ahead before the satellite is declared operational.

Air Force considering taking over NOAA weather satellite
The Air Force is considering taking over an existing geostationary orbit weather satellite operated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to help fill a gap in coverage over the Indian Ocean.

No changes to NASA research or communications under new administration
As reports filter out about restrictions on research and public communications at other federal agencies since the inauguration of President Donald Trump, a NASA official said Jan. 24 there have been no changes to the agency’s programs or policies.

Space weather efforts find stability despite presidential transition
As a Senate committee approved a new version of a space weather research bill Jan. 24, officials at government agencies said they have seen little sign of changes to ongoing efforts in this field despite the transition in administrations.

Budget issues could delay space weather mission
NOAA could be forced to delay plans for a space weather satellite if Congress decides to extend a stopgap spending bill currently funding the agency for the full year.

World View to fly weather radar on stratospheric balloon
World View Enterprises, the Arizona company developing high-altitude balloons for research and eventually tourism, plans to conduct a test flight of a weather radar on one of its balloons later this year.

New satellites, new administration key topics of AMS meeting
A meeting of atmospheric and space scientists this week will feature enthusiasm about a new generation of weather satellites tempered by uncertainty about the future of key programs in the Trump administration.