| Acronym | Meaning |
| ACD | Advanced Conceptual Design |
| CCSP | Coupled Climate Systems Program |
| SFC OR SFC | Surface |
| GDP | Ground Data Processor |
| INSTAAR | Institute For Arctic And Alpine Research |
| AMAX | American Metals Climax |
| HRIR | High-resolution Infrared Radiometer |
| DECNET | Digital Equipment Corporation Network |
| PPMV | Parts Per Million By Volume |
| GLOBE | Global Learning And Observations To Benefit The Environment |