Data Visualization

Visualization of real-time data allow scientists to search for patterns in current observational data. Such knowledge is useful for data quality and in directing detailed data collection.

DIS computer scientists develop near real-time data visualization tools for the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) program, which synthesize large amounts of complex tabular data for various meteorological instruments. Automated data visualization tools can:

• Create daily time array plots
• Display daily color contour plots to show gradations or fluctuations in data, such as changing cloud reflectivity shown above
• Produce weekly or monthly plots
• Develop animated plots and 3-D shapes

These help scientists in understanding current atmospheric characteristics during campaigns and field experiments. This knowledge allows scientists to directing detailed data collections for more rewarding case studies. More importantly scientists use these visualization tools daily to confirm data quality in long term data gathering efforts.