The Arctic observatory CD-ROM: An interactive approach to access and demonstrate scientific data and information

This paper is an introduction to the Arctic Observatory CD-ROM that accompanies this special issue. The data and information upon which this CD-ROM is based was derived from a prototype geographical information system (GIS). A simple graphical user interface (GUI) was developed specifically for the presentation of the GIS data and information in an educational environment. However, the utility of efficient access to a large volume of browse data of multiple parameters extends beyond the educational context. This effort is an example of how researchers can place their data and information in a format that is available for examination by others in the field, non-experts, and students interested in the field of study. To demonstrate the utility of the Arctic Observatory CD-ROM for research purposes, we analyzed a specific anomaly in ice concentration values which came to our attention during our tests of the GUI.