NRT (Near-Real-Time)

Data delivered within hours of observation, trading some calibration accuracy for speed. The opposite of “Standard” or “Final” products, which can take days to months.

Why it matters

For disasters — fire, flood, hurricane — a slightly-rougher product available in 3 hours beats a perfect one available in 3 weeks.

In plain terms

The difference between a live broadcast and a polished documentary: faster, a little rougher, but you see it while it still matters.