Visible (0.52-0.80 µm)
8 bits virtually noise free

1. Improved cloud edge and cloud top feature detection for improved cloud drift winds and severe storm identification
   
   
2. Low light visible imagery
   
   
3. Better detection of smoke, pollution and haze
   
   
4. Highly accurate cloud height measurements (stereo and shadows)
   
   
5. Use of imagery well beyond the satellite's 60 degree zenith, using GOES imagery near the earth's limb; as Alaska and New Zealand with GOES-9(-10)
   
   
6. Detection and tracking of sea ice
   
   
7. Ice and snow cover over land, with other channels
   
   
8. Best views ever of mesoscale cloud development with super rapid scan imagery