This document, a WMO publication on “The Role of Satellites in WMO programmes in the 2010s” is intended to update the last comparable publication entitled: “The Role of Satellites in WMO programmes in the 1980s” by D.S. Johnson and I.P. Vetlov published in 1977. This update was prepared by three primary authors: Dr G. Asrar, Dr T. Mohr and Mr G. Withee, with assistance from additional experts as identified and recruited by the primary authors. WMO Members involved in the Consultative Meetings on High-Level Policy on Satellite Matters felt strongly that the new publication would be of great importance to WMO Members, not only to the NMHSs but also the larger communities among the Members. For example, such users would include policy decision-makers or those involved with the IPCC assessment process. It is envisioned that there will be widespread use of the new publication by many user communities as nations progress into the new century and prepare for a new set of societal and environmental challenges across the globe.