Ocean Modeling and Observing System Simulation Experiments Center (OMOC)
The Ocean Modeling and Observing System Simulation Experiments Center (OMOC) is a joint center between the UM Rosenstiel School’s Department of Ocean Science (OCE) and NOAA’s Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratory (AOML). Research carried out by OCE and CIMAS scientists focus on the design, optimization, and evaluation of observing systems, especially related to the improvements of ocean forecasts. These forecasts cover a broad range of applications such as the prediction of the transport and dispersion of oil and marine debris and hurricanes.
The Center has developed a prototype system for ocean OSSEs (Observing System Simulation Experiments) for the North Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, with plans to expand on the global scale and with fully relocatable capabilities. The OSSE system methodology incorporates both modeling and observational techniques and analyses, including data assimilation and data based model evaluation.
Key Goals:
Develop, evaluate, and validate a prototype ocean OSSE (Observing System Simulation Experiment) relocatable system
Use OSEs (Observing System Experiments) and OSSEs (both regional and basin-wide) to improve the quality of ocean analysis and forecasts for a broad range of applications:
- Hurricane intensity prediction using coupled hurricane forecast models
- Predicting the transport and dispersion of oil and marine debris
- Monitoring and forecasting ocean climate variability
Communicate results of observing system impact studies to key stakeholders, such as:
- Ocean and weather forecast centers
- Ocean observing system programs
