Remote sensing and computer technologies have developed to the point where great new advances in real-time weather observing and forecasting are possible. An opportunity exists to make all phases of the manned and unmanned space programs more efficient, less threatened by delay, and free of weather-related hazards that could lead to damage or loss of spacecraft or even human lives. It is vital to make improvements within the meteorological support and launch decision infrastructure of NASA that may avert a repetition of tragedies such as the Atlas-Centaur 67 destruction on March 26, 1987, and the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion on January 28, 1986.
Meteorological Support for Space Operations recommends mechanisms by which NASA can put into operation state-of-the-science meteorological technology and advanced weather forecasting techniques to enhance the efficiency, reliability, and safety of space operations.
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