Creating datasets with observations at Arctic 'supersites' for use in model process studies, the MODF framework and preliminary MOSAiC results

Forecasting skill in the Arctic has been identified as a significant source of error current model studies, and evaluating the internal processes of these models using observations will provide important feedback for their improvement. By creating "Merged Observatory Data Files" for in situ data at major Arctic supersite observatories, members of the "Year of Polar Prediction site inter-comparison project" (YOPPsiteMIP) have created data products in a digestable format for use in model process studies. In order to create a homogeneous data product for the diverse range of sites, supersite teams have collaborated to create a codified MODF toolkit that defines the types of observations that may be found, documents the sources of these observations, and standardizes the data format the files will be available in. Here we present the current status of MODF production and what potential users of these datasets can expect to as efforts continue to make progress. In particular, there will be a focus on the initial collaborative efforts to create an MODF for observations made at the recent "Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate" (MOSAiC) expedition. The broad range of observations available from the year spent in the central Arctic by the MOSAIC team make it an ideal test bed for forecasters to investigate processes crossing the boundaries of the coupled Arctic climate system. The initial results of these MOSAiC efforts are shown here and the future goals for this exceptional dataset will be presented in an aspirational format.