| Erica Pinkney |  |
Research
Abstract –
The Laboratory for Ocean Color Users (LOCUS), hosted by the Goddard Earth Sciences (GES) Data and Information Services Center (DISC), provides an analytical framework through which researchers, teachers, and students can utilize remotely-sensed oceanographic time-series data and “Giovanni”, the GES DISC Interactive On-line Visualization and Analysis Infrastructure. Currently, LOCUS provides links to data, analysis tools, and informational resources, but does not explain basic concepts or provide demonstration research projects. When LOCUS is fully developed, it will include tutorials on example research subjects; an online user’s manual of Giovanni functions; Educational Modules which provide visualizations of fundamental oceanographic topics; concept-to-completion guidelines for independent investigational research projects; and a user forum that will allow scientists and data professionals to interact with LOCUS participants on their particular research programs.
The creation of six initial Educational Modules is the first LOCUS developmental milestone. These Educational Modules have a common format, and will discuss the following topics: the Gulf Stream (introductory concepts); major ocean currents; upwelling and phytoplankton productivity; interannual variability; seasonal variability; and the Southern Ocean. The modules utilize images of SeaWiFS and MODIS data products, primarily chlorophyll a concentration and Sea Surface Temperature (SST).