NASA GSFC SWRC Forecaster Levels:

SWRC forecasters are divided into three levels indicating the experience and "seniority" of the forecaster. Graduation to each level requires SWRC forecasting management assessment and approval. SWRC management can also issue "+" levels indicating progress in between different levels. Certificates will be issued after graduating to full levels I, II and III.


Forecaster Trainee

  • Person undergoing forecaster training.

Forecaster I

  • Entry-level forecasters are allowed to carry out forecasting duties under supervision of a Forecaster II or III. Any alert messages sent by Forecaster I require Forecaster II or Forecaster III approval.

  • Forecaster Trainee graduates to Forecaster I after i) completing SWRC space weather forecasting course(s) part of REDI, ii) carrying out at least 20 full 8 hour shifts of shadowing Forecaster II or Forecaster III and iii) assessment and approval by the SWRC forecasting management.

  • Forecaster I certificate will be presented at the time of the graduation.

Forecaster II

  • Mid-level experience forecaster allowed to carry out occasional independent forecasting duties. Major space weather events require Forecaster III participation in the analysis and alert message distribution. Forecaster II are allowed to train new forecasters and supervise Forecaster I level personnel.

  • Forecaster I graduates to Forecaster II after i) approximately 8-10 months of continuous forecasting service and ii) assessment and approval by the SWRC forecasting management.

  • Forecaster II certificate will be presented at the time of the graduation.

Forecaster III

  • Experienced advanced forecaster allowed to carry out forecasting duties fully independently. Forecaster III are allowed to train new forecasters and supervise Forecaster I and II level personnel.

  • Forecaster II graduates to Forecaster III after i) approximately 2 years of continuous forecasting service and ii) assessment and approval by the SWRC forecasting management.

  • Forecaster III certificate will be presented at the time of the graduation.