GOES is an integral component of weather forecasting. However, GOES imagery is typically produced in thirty minute intervals, throughout the day and night. Each satellite imager collects energy reflected or emitted from Earth's surface and atmosphere. All images are created in a digital form. There are five basic channels or spectral bands in which GOES data are collected.
Ground stations receive the digital information.
The data are then displayed as the various grayscale images shown above. These images are obtained only during daylight hours. They are used to show clouds, haze, severe storms, snow cover, volcanic activity, and other visible features. Many surface features are also apparent. This short wave IR is helpful in observing ground fog, fires, volcanoes, sea surface temperatures, and clouds.