How can atmospheric variables such as temperature, wind, rain and ozone be measured by satellites? How are these measurements taken and what has been learned since the first measurements in the 1970s? What data are currently available and what data are expected in the future?

The first volume of this encyclopedic book answers these questions by reporting the history of satellite meteorology and addresses how national and international agencies define coordinated programs to cover user needs. It also presents the principles of satellite remote sensing to deliver products suited to user requirements. This book is completed by a glossary and appendices with a list of supporting instruments already in use.