To reduce expenditures, the National Weather Service will discontinue the GOESTAP/GOESFAX network within the next three months. These analog circuits are no longer required to support NWS operations. All GOESTAP/GOESFAX circuits will be disconnected effective June 1, 1998.
The NWS provided the GOESTAP/GOESFAX extension service beginning in the mid-1970s to permit external users access to (analog) GOES satellite imagery that is available to NWS field offices. As part of modernization, the NWS has begun implementing an entirely new high speed satellite broadcast system (NOAAPORT) for distribution of high resolution digital GOES imagery to Weather Forecast Offices (WFOs). The implementation of this new system eliminates the NWS need for the GOESTAP/GOESFAX network and additional financial resources are unavailable to support continuation of the network beyond June 1, 1998.
GOESTAP/GOESFAX users were originally notified of the expected phase out in October 1996. A significant number of alternate sources of satellite imagery have developed in the interim, especially on the Internet. A comprehensive listing of web sites can be found at: http://www.nwas.org or http://orbit-net.nesdis.noaa.gov/ora/fpdt1/nwasat.html.
Should you have any further questions on the GOESTAP/GOESFAX phase out, please contact Mr. Larry Davis via e-mail at Laurence.Davis@noaa.gov.