Geospatial Meteorology and Oceanography Analysis and Display System

An interdisciplinary geophysical model and data display system was developed where multiple, disparate data types primarily meteorological and oceanographic data can be displayed using Google Maps in a geospatial context. Tools have been designed to provide useful information, including statistical analysis, cross-sections, animations, and time series plots based on data covering the entire globe over significant periods. Data sources include 1) observations from buoys, land based stations, and remote sensing satellites; 2) numerical model output from weather, ocean circulation, and ocean surface wave prediction models; and 3) products based on climatological and historical information. Types of data include 1) atmospheric parameters such as temperature, humidity, winds, and pressure; 2) ocean parameters such as temperature, salinity, density, currents, and chlorophyll; 3) ocean surface waves; and 4) bathymetry and bottom characteristics. The key to bringing such a plethora together in a single geospatial context is the establishment of easy-to-follow, well known data model standards on which the creation, storage, and access of these data sets is based. This facilitates the development of server side, or back-end, software to process data into a multitude of more meaningful analysis products. Performance response is also addressed with data storage and access strategies including a cataloging system to more quickly and efficiently make available data selection and products.-->