Model Forcing / Validation Data
(AOMIP)

To ensure an accurate intercomparison experiment, and to eliminate ambiguities in interpretation of model results, it is necessary to force and validate all models in as similar a manner as possible. To this end, we have collected and created a variety of standardized model forcing and validation data sets:

• Forcing Data
• Validation Data
• Data Application

• For bathymetry, we have created a global merged data product that blends the International Bathymetric Chart of the Arctic Ocean data with the Earth Topography Five Minute data (Holland, 2000).
• For river-runoff, we will be using the hydrographic data product for the arctic region developed at the University of New Hampshire (Lammers et al., 2000). For sea-ice we will use data sets archived at the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC).
• For hydrography, we have produced a global merged data product , where various high-quality Arctic Ocean data sets have been blended with the World Ocean Atlas (Steele et al., 2001).
• For atmospheric forcing, we will be using derived reanalysis products from the National Centers for Environmental Protection (NCEP).

• Ocean temperature and velocity data from moorings in the Fram Strait  (WSC Moorings).

The first AOMIP experiment involved an intercomparison of the seasonal cycle of the various AOMIP models. That experiment did not involve common forcing, but rather each AOMIP model was run using forcing data sets exactly as had been used by any given model prior to the beginning of the AOMIP.

The second and third AOMIP experiment involved a coordinated intercomparison of the last 50 years (1948 - present) as simulated by the various AOMIP models using a carefully-defined common forcing data set. The experiment consisted of a coordinated spin-up phase (1948 - 1978) and a coordinated analysis phase (1979 - 2004).

At present, a fourth AOMIP experiment is being planned involving a coordinated intercomparison of the last 100 years (~ 1900 - present).

. © David Holland. All Rights Reserved.

If you would like further information concerning any of the above topics please send email .