Spire to provide ocean wind data to strengthen weather forecasting and climate research

Spire Global, Inc., a leading global provider of space-based data, analytics and space services, today announced it was awarded a $2.5 million, 9-month contract by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for satellite weather data. The contract is part of NOAA’s Commercial Weather Data Pilot (CWDP) Ocean Surface Winds Pilot Study to evaluate how commercial satellite observations can improve measurements of ocean surface winds — a critical factor in forecasting hurricanes, winter storms, and other severe weather.

Under the contract, Spire will deliver Global Navigation Satellite System Reflectometry (GNSS-R) data in near real-time, focusing on ocean surface wind speeds. NOAA will use this data to assess how commercial satellite observations can enhance weather forecasting models and advance climate research. The initiative supports NOAA’s mission need for accurate and comprehensive measurements of global ocean surface winds, which are critical for marine forecasts, hurricane prediction, winter storm tracking, understanding the global water cycle and more.

“Ocean wind data is essential for improving forecasts, tracking severe storms, and advancing climate research,” said Theresa Condor, Chief Executive Officer at Spire Global. “We’re proud to partner with NOAA to utilize our satellite and GNSS-R data to advance the measurement of ocean winds, strengthen forecasts, and support efforts to protect lives and property from severe weather.”

The 9-month contract, commencing September 10, 2025, will consist of two phases: Data Delivery and Evaluation. The pilot will focus on ocean surface wind analysis, including assessing GNSS-R’s ability to capture stronger tropical cyclone winds, with results expected to inform future NOAA efforts to integrate commercial satellite data into weather and climate applications.

BUSINESS WIRE