OPeNDAP: Accessing data in a distributed, heterogeneous environment

Abstract

In the process of implementing a protocol for the transport of science data, the Open Source Project for a Network Data Access Protocol (OPeNDAP) group has learned a considerable amount about the internal anatomy of what are commonly considered monolithic concepts. In order to communicate among our group, we have adopted a collection of definitions and observations about data and the metadata that make them useful: differentiating between "semantic" and "syntactic" metadata, and defining categories such as "translational" and "use" metadata. We share the definitions and categorizations here in the hope that others will find them as useful as we do.

Evolution of the Earth Observing System (EOS) Data and Information System (EOSDIS)

“…Users can navigate to the data of interest through the hierarchical structure of S4PA or write scripts to acquire bulk data. GES DISC also offers services such as OPeNDAP (Cornillon et al 2003), OGC Web Map Service and Web Coverage Service, and on-line analysis capabilities using Giovanni, which is a Web-based application developed by the GES DISC that provides capabilities to visualize, analyze, and access Earth science remote sensing data without having to download the data (Acker and Leptoukh 2007). Users can search for data by navigating through the hierarchical structure as indicated above, a web based hierarchical navigation tool or a free-text (Google-like) tool called Mirador.…”

Shingle 2.0: generalising self-consistent and automated domain discretisation for multi-scale geophysical models

“…The problem of efficient access to large remotely hosted data sources is tackled by Cornillon et al (2003) which describes OPeNDAP (Open-source Project for a Network Data Access Protocol). The protocol has since been adopted by many organisations who host servers providing OPeNDAP services.…”

Managing Climate Risk with Seasonal Forecasts

“…At the data service layer forecast data is exposed via a data server, which makes the forecast data available using standard interfaces such as OPEnDAP [35]. At this stage, the generated outlooks are data products, not graphical products.…”