GEOS-FP Near Surface Temperature

Weather models begin their forecasts by integrating observations from ground stations, aircraft, balloons, and a growing constellation of Earth observing satellites to estimate the most realistic atmospheric state. The Goddard Earth Observing System Forward Processing (GEOS-FP) system is a research model maintained by NASA’s Global Modeling and Assimilation Office to demonstrate innovative new ways to use satellite data to improve predictions of weather, air quality, and greenhouse gases and to help NASA collect new observations of our home planet. Near surface temperature is calculated by sampling model fields at 2 meters (about 6 feet) above Earth’s surface, helping scientists communicate to the general public the air temperatures they encounter. Variations reflect differences in daytime and nighttime temperatures and the influence of large scale weather systems. As the planet warms in response to rising greenhouse gas concentrations, scientists are also tracking changes in the frequency of heat waves and their potential impacts on human health.

See https://gmao.gsfc.nasa.gov/GMAO_products/NRT_products.php