The search for synergistic new sensors for future geosynchronous weather satellites of the U.S

GOES-8 was launched 4/13/94. This first body-stabilized U.S. operational geosynchronous satellite provides a much more flexible observing platform than the earlier spinning spacecraft. As such it carries two major instruments, a 132 kg, five band imager and a 120 kg, 19 band atmospheric sounder as well as several secondary payloads. Studies are ongoing to lay the foundation for the architecture of the next generation, the GOES-N system. A review of the GOES developmental history, the plan for GOES-N system requirements development, and some key questions for this system to be operational in the 2008 time frame are presented