On this day in space! Oct. 16, 1975: NASA launches the 1st-ever GOES weather satellite to watch Earth from space

NASA launched the first operational GOES weather satellite on October 16, 1975, marking a significant milestone in space-based Earth observation. This launch is notable for sky-watchers because it paved the way for a network of satellites that provide critical weather forecasting and storm tracking data. The GOES satellite fleet has since grown to include multiple orbiting satellites, helping scientists and astronomers monitor severe weather events and space weather that can impact astronomical observations.