European Directory of the Ocean-observing system - EDIOS The EDIOS directory provides a new internet-based tool for searching information on observing systems operating repeatedly, regularly and routinely in European waters. It contains metadata on European observing systems such as platforms, repeated ship-borne measurements, buoys, remote imagery, etc. EDIOS is an initiative of the European Global Ocean Observing System (EuroGOOS). The directory was developed during the EDIOS project, co-funded by the European Commission Research Directorate General.The EDIOS Directory currently holds over 8,500 data entries, which are regularly updated. On-line searching can be done by 2 types of user-interface, i.e. Quick Search and Full Search, both providing a combined alphanumeric - geographical interface. Full Search The EDIOS Full Search enables users to focus their search by variables measured, instrument type, system type, geographic location, free search etc. and to sort through metadata from all included ocean-observing stations and series. Searches can be made using a versatile geographical and alphanumerical interface, by which users can combine search criteria like variables measured, country and names of data holding organizations etc together with a geographical area of interest, which can be indicated by an integrated dynamic mapping application.

Quick Search Next to this Full Search users can also query the EDIOS directory by using the Quick Search option. This presents a dynamic table (matrix) showing the range of variables, the geographical coverage and the number of stations / data series, that are included in the EDIOS directory, at a glance; plus the option to present each combination as a query result in the EDIOS map interface. Benefits EDIOS enables rapid combination and co-ordination of national ocean-observing systems to improve monitoring and modelling around European seas, and to develop and refine observations. It also allows assessment of the performance of the ocean-observing and forecasting systems, and set European standards for ocean-observing technology by developing a classification scheme for operational ocean-observing systems. EDIOS will encourage trans-national wide-ranging scientific use of the data generated by the ocean-observing systems included in the directory, benefiting efforts to predict, assess, and formulate response options to global change. National Focal Points Sustained management of the EDIOS directory service and it’s web-interface are guaranteed by EuroGOOS, the British Oceanographic Data Centre (BODC) and MARIS. BODC coordinates the compilation of national contributions and manages the overall quality of the EDIOS entries; MARIS has developed and operates the EDIOS website and user interfaces. The EDIOS directory is maintained and open for entries from all institutes in Europe. To handle maintenance of existing entries and new entries, an efficient organization has been established by EuroGOOS involving a pan-European network of national coordinators or focal points. Also a co-operation has been agreed between EuroGOOS and the Sea-Search network of national oceanographic data centres and focal points in Europe. Visit the website: www.edios.org

© Copyright Sea-Search - SeaDataNet 1998 - - All rights Reserved.