Prof. Xu Jianmin Wins IMO Prize for Transforming Global Satellite Meteorology

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has named Prof. Xu Jianmin of China the recipient of the prestigious International Meteorological Organization (IMO) Prize, its highest distinction. This accolade, often regarded as the meteorological equivalent of the Nobel Prize, recognizes Prof. Xu’s extraordinary contributions to satellite meteorology and global weather prediction systems. The award will be formally presented during the WMO Executive Council session in 2026.

Prof. Xu is celebrated as a founding figure in China’s meteorological satellite program, having designed and led the development of the country’s FENGYUN (FY) satellite ground system, as well as numerous innovations in satellite-based weather monitoring and data services.

Architect of China’s Meteorological Satellite System

Prof. Xu, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering since 1997, played a transformative role in shaping China’s space-based meteorology infrastructure. He previously served as:

• Director-General of the National Satellite Meteorological Center,

• Deputy Director-General of the National Meteorological Center under the China Meteorological Administration (CMA).

His early vision for a national satellite weather system led to the design and construction of the FY meteorological satellite ground segment from 1986 to 1996. Prof. Xu tackled complex technological challenges in satellite data navigation, processing, and distribution, paving the way for operational success with China’s first polar-orbiting satellite (FY-1) and geostationary satellite (FY-2).

Over 99.5% System Reliability and Continuous Global Observation

Under Prof. Xu’s leadership, the FY satellite system has evolved into one of the world’s most reliable and sophisticated meteorological systems. Since the launch of FY-2C in 2005, the FY satellite network has achieved a remarkable operational success rate of over 99.5%.

Geostationary FY satellites have provided continuous high-resolution coverage at two strategic longitudes—105ºE and 86.5ºE—enabling real-time meteorological monitoring of East Asia, West Asia, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean. These platforms have been instrumental in filling observation gaps in global satellite networks, especially over the Indian Ocean.

A Global Impact on Weather Forecasting and Early Warnings

Prof. Xu’s contributions have transcended national borders. Under his guidance, China’s FY Polar-Orbiting Satellite Program advanced from FY-1 to the FY-3 generation, boosting the accuracy of quantitative meteorological applications. FY-3 data are now integrated into most global Numerical Weather Prediction (NWP) models, significantly enhancing forecasting accuracy worldwide.

His leadership also extended to research on data preprocessing, algorithm development, and derivation of satellite-based quantitative products, many of which have received commendation from the Coordination Group for Meteorological Satellites (CGMS).

One standout achievement includes the launch of FY-3E in 2021—the first civilian operational satellite in an Early-Morning orbit—which provides unique data at a crucial time window previously underserved in global forecasting systems.

Supporting International Disaster Response and Resilience

Prof. Xu also played a critical role in the creation of the FENGYUN Emergency Support Mechanism (FY-ESM) in 2018, a service framework that activates FY satellites during extreme weather and environmental crises.

FY-ESM has since been deployed 18 times, including in 2019 during cyclones Idai and Kenneth, which devastated parts of Mozambique and East Africa. Through the FY-2H and FY-3 satellites, real-time data on cyclone development, track changes, wind strength, and rainfall were shared with affected regions, bolstering early warning systems and disaster preparedness.

Celebrating a Legacy of Scientific Leadership and International Cooperation

Prof. Xu’s legacy is one of visionary innovation, scientific rigor, and cross-border collaboration. He has authored over 50 academic publications and received multiple accolades, including:

• First and second-class National Science and Technology Progress Awards, and

• The 9th Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Award.

His IMO Prize win reflects the WMO’s commitment to recognizing those who advance scientific excellence and international solidarity in the face of escalating climate risks and environmental challenges.

A Prestigious Lineage of IMO Laureates

The IMO Prize, named after the WMO’s predecessor organization, honors exceptional achievements in meteorology, hydrology, and climate science. It includes a gold medal, parchment scroll, and monetary grant, awarded annually by the WMO Executive Council.

Most recently, Prof. Gerhard Adrian of Germany received the award in 2024, collecting it during a ceremony held on 19 June.

Prof. Xu Jianmin’s receipt of the 2026 IMO Prize celebrates not just a career of distinction, but a lasting contribution to global meteorological progress and resilience in the face of climate-related threats.