1. Sensors and Measurements

   • How well do current NPOESS IORD requirements match NASA research requirements for the EOS PM-2 satellite series? Are there any overlaps with AM-2 or CHEM requirements?

   • If additional capability is needed for climate monitoring goals, what is this capability and what are technical and programmatic implications?

   • Are there instruments that could be added to the operational suite, e.g., a scatterometer or SAR? What issues must be addressed in adding capabilities of this kind?

   • What are the requirements for on-orbit or ready-to-launch replacement instrumentation for research and operational goals? Are there common spares strategies that could serve both research and operational needs satisfactorily?

   • What issues might arise should NPOESS be tasked to undertake new missions such as long-term climate monitoring?

2. Program Synchronization

   • What are the critical milestones in integrating research and operational space systems? Are any disjoints apparent?

   • What are possible approaches to establishing program flexibility to ensure that both research and operational missions are achieved in the face of inevitable schedule changes?

3. Data Continuity and Interoperability

   • What are the highest priorities for continuous/interoperable research datasets?

   • What are technical approaches to ensuring data (a) interoperability between research and operational sensors and (b) continuity in the face of evolving sensor technology?

   • What is the status of data storage, retrieval, and access planning for research use of NOAA operational data or possible NPOESS-obtained climate data?

A report summarizing the findings and recommendations that address technical items (1) and (2) (‘Sensors and Measurements') and ‘Program Synchronization') will be the Phase 1 report. Item (3) ‘Data Continuity and Interoperability' will be addressed in the Phase 2 report.