The CAMS interactive atlas package : a computerized program for the archiving and presentation of oceanographic data

Abstract

The CAMS Interactive Atlas Package allows a user to computer contour any hydrographic quantity on any isosurface in any global projection. It consists of two parts: a large, and growing, data base which can be easily supplemented with user-supplied data, and a set of computer software routines that manage the data, interpolate onto the isosurface, and draw the maps. The data base presently includes the Levitus Climatological Atlas, IGY data, GEOSECs, TTO, and many NODC stations, all in a common format. In addition, the WHO! CTD data set can be easily accessed. This data base will be supplemented as new data becomes available. The software routines allow the user to interpolate the data vertically on to a selected isopleth, such as an isobaric or isopycnal surface, and then horizontally interpolate the station data onto a regular grid for final contouring. Land mass areas can be automatically blanked out. The continental boundaries are drawn in and the contouring done in any one of fifteen projections. Station locations, cruise tracks, and bottom topography can all be included. The contour map can be plotted on either a vector plotter or a raster device, allowing the use of color in the final product.