Earth Observation Web Based Services
Designing the next generation of Online Data Access Services
As part of an evolution to its data services, EUMETSAT has set up a series of Pathfinder Projects to explore new data access capabilities. Their aim is to develop a new portfolio of data services within 2020. The Earth Observation Web Based Services (EOWS) project framework has the goal to design and realize a set of Pathfinder Projects. In a consortium led by CGI Deutschland, 52°North works with con terra, ask visual and GeoSolutions to develop a flexible, scalable and extensible architecture for providing access to EUMETSAT’s products.
52°North focuses on the development of the web application for intuitive EO data access. The application is designed to provide an easy-to-use web interface for end users in order to identify EO products of interest. It comprises a search interface with spatial, temporal and thematic filters. The users are able to examine the details (e.g. the spatial footprint, sensing time, satellite instruments used) and start the download of single or multiple products.
In the latest development iteration, the main focus was on the integration of the feedback provided by EUMETSAT’s users. The look and feel of the Data Access UI (formerly known as the “OLDA UI”) has been completely overhauled. In collaboration with UI/UX experts of CGI, 52°North realized a modern and lightweight user interface that includes additional convenience features, such as a shopping cart functionality. Intuitive filter widgets have also been introduced to provide the user with the best possible experience.