GOES-U NOAA-NASA PATCH SPACE MISSION GEOSTATIONARY OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENT SAT.

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LAUNCHING FROM THE CAPE ON FALCON HEAVY AT SPACE LAUNCH COMPLEX 39A
 

It is the fourth and final satellite in NOAA’s GOES-R Series of advanced geostationary satellites. These satellites are designed to operate into the 2030s, providing crucial weather observations and environmental monitoring for the Western Hemisphere.

GOES-U recently completed rigorous environmental testing to ensure it can withstand the harsh conditions of launch and orbiting in space, approximately 22,236 miles above Earth. The testing process spanned nearly a year and included various assessments:

1. Thermal Vacuum Testing: GOES-U was subjected to extreme temperatures, ranging from 188°F (87°C) to -67°F (-55°C), simulating the conditions of launch and space environment.
2. Vibration Testing: To mimic launch stresses and ensure structural integrity.
3. Acoustic Testing: Simulating the high sound pressure during launch.
4. Shock Testing: Confirming the satellite’s ability to withstand separation from the launch vehicle and deployment of solar panels.
5. Electromagnetic Interference and Compatibility (EMI/EMC) Testing: Ensuring spacecraft functions are not affected by electromagnetic radiation during operations.
6. Solar Array Deployment Test: Verifying proper deployment of the large, five-panel solar array once in geostationary orbit.

Once GOES-U reaches geostationary orbit, it will be renamed GOES-19. After successful on-orbit checkout, NOAA plans to put GOES-19 into operational service, replacing GOES-16 as GOES East.