The GOES program grew out of the successful use of geostationary weather satellites with the experimental SMS -1 & -2. Like many weather satellites, GOES was developed and launched by NASA, but once operational GOES was turned over to NOAA for day-to-day administration. The provision of timely global weather information, including advance warning of developing storms, is the primary function of the GOES. GOES imagery is commonly featured on many TV weather reports across the United States and the world. The GOES Program maintains 2 satellites operating in conjunction to provide observational coverage of 60% of the Earth. The GOES satellite system has remained an essential cornerstone of weather observations and forecasting for 25 years.