Ocean Modeling
Computer ocean models are tools scientists use to numerically describe or represent ocean conditions. Models are used to forecast future states and to understand or decompose the various factors that affect or drive these conditions. The models, which numerically represent ocean dynamics and thermodynamics, can be used to make comprehensive ocean state estimates, or ocean predictions, of currents, temperature and salinity structures, external and internal tides, surface waves, storm surges, etc. However, to make accurate ocean predictions, the models must be constrained by observations through realistic forcing and data assimilation.
U.S. IOOS Modeling and Analysis Subsystem
Sample Data Asset Map from MARACOOS Interactive Data Asset Map
The Modeling and Analysis subsystem comprises the U.S. IOOS-provided data, data products (products derived from IOOS data), and services used by U.S. IOOS users/customers. These users are Federal and non-Federal organizations and agencies, industry, academia, the research community, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), tribal entities, professional organizations, and the general public. Intermediate users/customers synthesize and evaluate those data, products, and services to forecast the state of the marine environment and provide the results via reports, alerts, model outputs, or tailored analytical products to various end users/customers. This subsystem also provides the mechanism by which intermediate and end users make their requirements for IOOS data and data products known.
Modeling Testbed
In Fiscal Year 2010 the US IOOS Program initiated a coastal ocean modeling testbed via a $4M competitive grant awarded to the Southeastern University Research Association.
The purpose of the testbed is to make significant progress towards the realization of IOOS modeling and data analysis subsystem through implementation of an extensible, scalable and sustainable community modeling environment and demonstration of a super regional testbed.
Modeling Galleries
The Ocean Modeling “galleries” provides a series of links to on-going ocean modeling and forecasting activities across US IOOS including the 11 US IOOS Regional Associations and key partners at NOAA and the US Navy.