The overall goal of LWS is to develop the scientific understanding necessary to effectively address those particular aspects of the connected Sun-Earth system that directly affect life and society.
Space weather is a key result of that connection.
The components of LWS will be enumerated. Concepts which are presently under study for the future missions will be described. Although originally a U.S. initiative, the problems that LWS addresses are global in nature. Thus, it is recognized that LWS will be more successful if it features open data and encourages participation by international partners. The latest status of the LWS program in the U.S. will be reported.