Exploring the Unknown - NASA's History Office

[1]
EXPLORING THE UNKNOWN 207
Basic Agreement Between U.S. Department of
Commerce and the National Aeronautics and Space
Administration Concerning Operational
Meteorological Satellite Systems
SECTION 1. AUTHORITY AND PURPOSE
Recognizing the success of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration
(NASA) research and development (R&D) meteorological satellite program and the utilization
by the Department of Commerce - Weather Bureau (DOC - WB) of satellite data
in weather analysis and forecasting; and
Taking note that Congress, also recognizing this success, provided in the
Supplemental Appropriation Act of 1962, and thereafter, funds authorizing DOC - WB to
establish and operate a system for the continuous observation of world-wide meteorological
conditions from space satellites and for the reporting and processing of the data
obtained for use in weather forecasting . . .”: and
Recognizing the broad responsibilities of NASA under the Space Act for continuing a
research and development program for the development of spacecraft technology and
meteorological satellite systems for (1) application to operational systems and
(2) research activity in the atmospheric sciences; and
Taking note that Congress appropriated separate funds to NASA for the purpose of
supporting such an R&D program of spacecraft technology and meteorological satellite
systems;
[2] It is, therefore, the purpose of this agreement to define the relationship between, and
the functions to be performed by the DOC - WB and NASA (1) in the conduct of operational
meteorological satellite programs, and (2) in the development of supporting technology
for operational meteorological satellite programs.
SECTION II. ESTABLISHMENT AND OPERATION OF THE
NATIONAL OPERATIONAL METEOROLOGICAL SATELLITE SYSTEM
A. Objective
The primary objectives of the National Operational Meteorological Satellite
System (NOMSS) is to provide meteorological information for prompt and effective use
by the various national meteorological services in weather analysis and prediction. The
operation of NOMSS will be based on, but not be limited to, the technology produced in
the NASA R&D Meteorological Satellite Program and will satisfy the meteorological
requirements of user agencies, subject to limitations of budget, resources of law. The
DOC - WB may modify NOMSS as appropriate and in accordance with the terms of this
agreement to accommodate changes in meteorological requirements and developments
in technology.
[3] B. Basic Responsibility and Functions
1. The DOC - WB by law has the basic responsibility for the establishment and
operation of the NOMSS, which includes obtaining necessary funds.
2. Each agency agrees to perform the functions and follow the management
duties and procedures set forth in paragraphs D and E of this section.