Global Data Service
The instrument data will be provided to the users in near real-time, after their acquisition and processing by the ground segment to obtain geometrically consistent and calibrated radiance values, and a number of geophysical variables with global coverage. Processed data will be transmitted to users primarily via EUMETCast. Meteorological data and products will also be sent and relayed via the WMO Global Telecommunications System (GTS) and the Regional Meteorological Data Communication Network (RMDCN) to the National Meteorological Services and ECMWF.
Regional Data Service
The regional data service uses a network of direct broadcast data receiving ground stations to rapidly transmit data from a defined geographical Area of Interest (AOI) to users. The baseline regional AOI currently covers the North Atlantic and European regions between 30° to 80° North and 65° West to 50° East, as shown as the red box in Figure 3.
The plan is to re-use selected existing EPS EARS direct broadcast station sites to cover the AOI and add complementary stations as necessary.
Data received at the stations is transmitted in real-time to EUMETSAT Headquarters for processing and transmission to end users via EUMETCast. AOI data will be delivered to users within 30 minutes of sensing, making it suitable for short range regional numerical weather prediction models.
Not every satellite orbit will be visible from the AOI. Over five days there will be 24 descending and 28 ascending passes over the AOI, i.e. about three-quarters of the orbits will have some degree of visibility over the AOI, either on their ascending or descending parts.
Direct Data Broadcast Service
Instrument data will be broadcast in real-time by the satellites to receiving stations in visibility of the satellite (direct broadcast). This transmission will be in X-Band and allow reception via an antenna of approximately three metres (depending on local conditions and quality of the antenna system) and a user station. Data is only available for the field of view of the satellite, but it is available in real-time.