The Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite Program (GOES) is a joint effort of NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Currently, the GOES system consists of GOES-12 operating as GOES-East in the eastern part of the constellation at 75° west longitude, and GOES-10 operating as GOES-West at 135° west longitude. These spacecraft help meteorologists observe and predict local weather events, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, fog, flash floods, and other severe weather. In addition, GOES observations have proven helpful in monitoring dust storms, volcanic eruptions, and forest fires.

The benefits that directly enhance the quality of human life and protection of Earth's environment include:

• Supports the search and rescue satellite aided system (SARSAT)
  
  
• Contributes to the development of worldwide environmental warning services and enhancements of basic environmental services
  
  
• Improves the capability for forecasting and providing real-time warning of solar disturbances
  
  
• Provides data that may be used to extend knowledge and understanding of the atmosphere and its processes

GOES - NO/P is the next series of GOES satellites. GOES-N, the first spacecraft in the new GOES-N/O/P series, was launched on May 24, 2006 aboard a Boeing Delta IV Rocket.
+ View details

GOES-O is scheduled to launch on November 5, 2008.

The GOES R Series will follow GOES - NO/P. The first launch is scheduled for the FY2015.