Open Systems Radar Product Generator project complete

NSSL/CIMMS finished a major program working with the Department of Commerce, Department of Transportation, and the Department of Defense to upgrade the Radar Product Generator (RPG) to an Open Systems environment (ORPG). NSSL led the system's software architecture, design, and implementation. The RPG is a part of the NEXRAD WSR-88D that processes Doppler radar data through numerous meteorological and product generation algorithms. The algorithm results and Doppler radar images are distributed to the various NEXRAD consumers, which include the NWS, FAA, and the Air Force as well as the private sector. The NEXRAD ORPG is the primary source of most of the weather radar images and other meteorological products used by federal agencies and those seen on the Web and on local television broadcasts.

As a result of the NSSL/CIMMS software, the ORPG can now be hosted on inexpensive UNIX workstations and LINUX PC's. Another benefit of the software upgrade is that multiple organizations can develop and test new scientific algorithms and products using the operational software. More importantly, the upgrade streamlined the process for integrating new science and technology into the system, enabling the Radar Operations Center (ROC) to reduce their software build release from the 18-24 months cycle under the legacy system to only a six-month release cycle with the ORPG.

The ORPG Software Development Team was an effective cross-organizational team of very dedicated individuals. The team was composed of NSSL staff (Mike Jain and Doug Forsyth), CIMMS staff (Zhongqi Jing, Eddie Forren, Roc Adams, John Krause, Dan Suppes, John Thompson, Dave Priegnitz, Hoyt Burcham, Jeff Horn, and Josh Guice), NWS/ROC staff (Steve Smith), and ROC Contractors (Gary Gookin, Aamir Nawaz, and Nolita Morgan). The ORPG Software Development Team members were recognized by NWS and NSSL management for their critical contributions to the project. Zhongqi Jing (CIMMS) was honored by receiving NOAA's Team Member of the Month in September 2002. This award is designed to recognize non-federal employees who made significant contributions to NOAA programs. Mike Jain (NSSL) was awarded the DOC Bronze Medal for his role and contributions to the ORPG Project.