§8517 Observing System Simulation Experiments

Summary

The Assistant Administrator for Oceanic and Atmospheric Research must run simulation studies to measure how different weather observing systems add value. These studies must look at effects on global forecasts, hurricane track and strength forecasts, tornado warning time and accuracy, mid-latitude severe storm outbreaks, and storms that can cause extreme rain and flooding lasting 6 hours to 1 week. The work must be done with other NOAA groups, other federal agencies, the U.S. weather industry, and university partners. The studies must quantify how proposed space, aircraft, and ground sensors would change analyses and forecasts, compare design options, and weigh performance and costs for saving lives and property. They must be done before buying any government-owned or -leased operational observing system or any major new commercial data purchase with a lifecycle cost over $500,000,000. Not later than 30 days after April 18, 2017, a study on Global Navigation Satellite System Radio Occultation must be completed; not later than 120 days after April 18, 2017, a study on a geostationary hyperspectral sounder global constellation must be completed. After finishing all studies, the Assistant Administrator must publish the results and an assessment of public and private weather data sourcing options, including availability, affordability, and cost-effectiveness, developed under section 50503 of title 51.