The SUVI on the GOES-R satellites will provide the required solar observational capabilities that enable NOAA to monitor solar activity and to issue accurate real-time alerts when space weather may possibly affect the performance and reliability of space-borne and ground-based technological systems.  Image credit: Lockheed Martin

[Satellite TODAY 08-07-13] A Lockheed Martin team has successfully completed electrical, mechanical and thermal environmental tests for the Solar Ultraviolet Imager (SUVI) instrument, which will make crucial solar measurements when it flies on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration‘s (NOAA) next-generation Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite (GOES) satellite mission, known as GOES R.

The instrument is scheduled for delivery in October 2013 for incorporation with the satellite at Lockheed Martin’s Space Systems facility in Denver. The advanced spacecraft and instrument technology used on the GOES R series is projected to improve the quality and timeliness of forecasts, increasing the safety and economic benefits to the public.

The SUVI instrument will provide the necessary solar observational capabilities that enable NOAA’s Space Weather Prediction Center in Boulder, Colo., to monitor solar activity and to issue accurate, real-time alerts when space weather may affect the performance and reliability of space-borne and ground-based technological systems. Space weather can disrupt satellite operations, communications, navigation, and the distribution of electricity through power grids, potentially leading to economic losses and the endangerment of human life.