Interactive physical data cubes: A novel perspective for exploring Earth system dynamics

Abstract

Abstract. Earth system datasets continue to expand in size and complexity, making it increasingly difficult for non-experts to explore satellite observations and model outputs. We argue that new avenues for data exploration are needed to lower this barrier. Here we present the first interactive, touch-enabled physical data cube that allows users to explore any Earth system dataset intuitively across space, time, and variables. Exhibiting the physical data cube at a major conference showed that users could easily explore and identify patterns in atmospheric and land-surface data through direct physical interaction, demonstrating the system’s potential for scientific discovery, education and public engagement.

Affiliated Institutions

• Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research DE
• Center for Scalable Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence
• German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research DE
• Leipzig University DE
• German Research Centre for Artificial Intelligence DE

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