Geographic information system, or GIS for short, is a technology that enables users to gather, store, handle, examine, and present spatial data. Many earth science disciplines, particularly atmospheric science and technology, can benefit from the usage of GIS.
The study of the atmosphere, its processes, and its interactions with the surface of the earth and other planetary systems is known as atmospheric science. The use of scientific information and methodologies to monitor, foretell, and manage atmospheric events is known as atmospheric technology. Weather forecasting, climate modelling, air quality monitoring, and remote sensing are a few examples of atmospheric technology.
By offering geographical analysis, data integration, visualisation, and decision-making, GIS can play a significant role in atmospheric research and technology. The following are some advantages of applying GIS to atmospheric science and technology:
- GIS can make it possible to combine multiple data types from numerous sources, including satellite imagery, on-the-ground observations, numerical models, and social and economic data. Understanding the spatial patterns and relationships between atmospheric variables, as well as how they affect the environment and civilization, can be aided by this1.
- Using geographic techniques like interpolation, overlay, buffer, zonal statistics, and spatial statistics, GIS can make it easier to analyse collections of atmospheric data. Exploring geographic variability, trends, anomalies, correlations, and causality in atmospheric phenomena can be aided by these techniques1.
- Using maps, charts, graphs, animations, and interactive interfaces, GIS may improve the visualisation of atmospheric data. Researchers can use these visualisations to successfully present their findings to a variety of audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, educators, and the general public2.
- Through the provision of tools for scenario analysis, risk assessment, impact evaluation, adaption planning, and mitigation methods, GIS can aid in the decision-making process in atmospheric science and technology. These resources can aid researchers in tackling difficult issues and difficulties relating to the weather, climate, and air quality3.
In conclusion, because it enables researchers to gather, manage, analyse, visualise, and utilise geographical data in a variety of ways, GIS is a useful technology for atmospheric science and technology. GIS can enhance science communication and encourage cross-disciplinary research collaborations in the geosciences. GIS can help improve the usability and accessibility of weather and climate data for non-atmospheric scientists1.
