This table lists the instrument configurations and supported product groups for the present complement of two NOAA and two DMSP satellites. Each set of instruments is designed to take both day and night measurements of radiation over large portions of the electromagnetic spectrum including the ultraviolet, visible, infrared, and microwave.

Multi-spectral observations of the earth's surface, clouds, and atmosphere are combined to quantify key surface, cloud, precipitation, and atmospheric properties. This allows the POES to provide a wide range of hydro-meteorological information and products that can be used to support environmental monitoring and forecast activities.