The main database from several radars is from 1981 to the present. Variables such as temperature, electron density, and ion velocity are measured. In 1984, NSF began a special program involving the DSS and NCAR's HAO to establish and maintain a database at NCAR so that data from several radars can be easily used together. A minicomputer is maintained at NCAR for access to this database. Batch and interactive software and documentation have been written and installed.
Current plans are to add an interactive data selection capability to the web interface.
We assist data contributors by designing new record layouts, providing conversion software and verifying results. DSS staff will periodically archive new data contributions, fill data and software requests, consult with users, and prepare and distribute an annual catalog.