A processing system for Argos meteorological data

Abstract

Upper Ocean Processes Group meteorological data is transmitted from surface buoys via Argos satellite and processed in an automatic mode on a UNIX workstation. Data is extracted from input files based on instrument type and experiment, processed as appropriate, and plotted, without user intervention. While the processing system normally runs automatically, it is designed so that modules can also be run directly from a terminal when necessary. The Argos processing system allows us to monitor the meteorological data being collected in the field, and provides early information about problems with sensors, instruments, or buoys, when they occur. The automatic process allows more information to be viewed with less effort, and increases the usefulness of the Argos data.