The VOC enabled feedback loop. The VOC is essentially a field operations center that resides on the Internet itself, where participants can interact from wherever in the world they happen to be. The feedback loop is centered on integrated observational data displays and nearñreal time computer model outputs will be created, and the updated information will facilitate continuous, interactive planning as day-to-day missions are carried out.
Priority 1: Enabling Innovative Field Experiments and Measurement Campaigns
Virtual Operations Center
Background
Field experiments in the atmospheric sciences have grown in complexity, in part due to more capable observing platforms and models and more access to an array of new operational networks (satellites, mesonets, weather service radars, etc.) and forecasting products. During a field campaign, these data are typically sent to an on-site Operations Center and used in the real-time direction of observing platforms and in planning future missions. Advances in communications and information technology provide an opportunity to significantly improve our ability to meet the science-driven requirements of these centers.
Progress
In FY06, EOL staff submitted a proposal to NSF for a Virtual Operations Center (VOC) for field experiments in the atmospheric sciences. The proposal followed an extensive assessment of community needs. The VOC will use new technologies to provide new capabilities in visualization, forecast model assimilation, real-time data management, and network-based collaborative tools, which will lead to more efficient use of observing platforms and improved field project data sets. The VOC will also expand field participation to interested researchers, staff, students, and others at remote sites.
Plans
NSF is expected to make a funding decision in early FY 2007. If the project is funded, NCAR staff will build prototypes for the VOC and engage the community in the first VOC workshop.
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