GMAO GEOS-5

The Global Modeling and Assimilation Office (GMAO) at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) has delivered the next-generation global atmospheric model, GEOS-5, for MAP. GEOS-5 is a major element of NASA's “Earth System Model” - a model where the components may be interchanged or augmented via the Earth System Modeling Framework (ESMF). Thus, the GEOS-5 modeling system represents a new modeling approach that can capitalize on different agency and community investments. The GEOS-5 system will be available from a software repository that is part of the MAP Modeling Environment (MAP-ME). MAP-ME is maintained by GSFC's Software Integration and Visualization Office (SIVO). Community investigators may work with GEOS-5 independently or in collaboration with scientists at the GMAO. In either case, by working through the MAP-ME, they will have access to technical support from SIVO.

Investigators whose work requires in-depth scientific understanding of the GEOS-5 system are encouraged to establish collaborations with GMAO scientists. GMAO collaborators will be able to work on the main line of development at the Software Repository and have access to GMAO's products as part of the “GMAO science team.” Scientists who would like to participate in direct collaborations should approach the GMAO point of contact in their area.

Investigators who wish to use GEOS-5 within their own computing environments and/or download local versions to make modifications without direct collaboration with the core developers within the GMAO can still receive technical support from SIVO and should contact a SIVO representative to discuss plans for research and usage of the models.

GMAO and SIVO are currently working to make GEOS-5 open source.   However, these efforts are still in progress and not complete.  In the interim, a Software Usage Agreement is required by GSFC’s Innovative Partnerships Program (IPP) Office to obtain the software.  This agreement 1) makes arrangements for understanding what government research purposes the software will be supporting; 2) identifies what contract, grant, and agreement it will be used; and 3) spells out responsibilities regarding software distribution.  After completing these agreements, the IPP Office will let SIVO know that you may access the source code.   The Software Usage Agreement form may be obtained by contacting: Dale.L.Hithon@nasa.gov, Technology Transfer Specialist, Innovative Partnership Program Office, (301) 286-2691.  When contacting Dale, inform her that you wish to complete a “Software Usage Agreement” form for GEOS-5 Modeling Software, NASA Case No: GSC-15354-1. Alternatively, you may send an email. A sample email request is available on the IPP website.

+ View GEOS-5 diagram
+ Browse GEOS-5 software
+ Download on-line GEOS-5 training materials (Revised 10/3/07)
+ Download a Quickstart Guide to running at the NCCS
+ Obtain more information about GEOS-5
+ Request support from SIVO