MAP Newsletter #2

from various points of view. Several maps give the present density of networks (radiosondes, radars rain gauges, automatic surface stations). Tentative flight track patterns are suggested. Finally two tables list the targeted major observing systems: mesonets, microbarographs, Doppler sodar and radar, wind profiler, additional radiosondes, lightweight dropsondes, and 11 aircraft. In Phase III the evaluation of all results obtain in the earlier phase has to be undertaken. After the concerted observational effort of the field phase two major tasks need to be tackled as an integral part of MAP: Field data have to be merged and analysed and the scientific hypotheses set up in Phase I need to be tested. The strength of MAP is that both scientific issues and practical applications will benefit. The MAP data set will be made available to interested institutions beyond those directly involved in the programme to enable a broad use of the data. It is believed that a careful preparation of the database will guarantee that the MAP data set becomes a long-term reference for studies in mountain meteorology.

Chapter 4: Data Management

In this chapter it is stated that a central MAP Data Centre (MDC) is essential for the overall success of the programme. Tasks and technical features of the MDC are listed. The operation of the MDC should start as soon as possible. The MAP Data Bank Manager will have to draft the detailed Data Management Plan which lists, for each data type separately, all procedures necessary to get the data from the producer into the data bank. Data amounts must be estimated and hardware requirements defined. Members of the MAP community have to agree on security measures which will have to be implemented by the MAP Data Bank Manager. Next, a list of recommended formats for different data types must be made available.

Chapter 5: Organization and overall schedule

The organizational structure of MAP comprises three official bodies whose duties are specified in their respective terms of reference:

	A. The Intergovernmental Panel (IGP)
	B. The Scientific Steering Committee (SSC)
	C. The Coordination and Implementation Group (CIG).

In addition a Programme Office (PO) is created to serve as focal point for the MAP activities.

All in all, the document heralds the firm belief that the Mesoscale Alpine Programme focuses on an area which is of high interest to the community of atmospheric scientists in Europe and overseas, as well as to weather services in the Alpine countries. It is hoped that the findings of MAP will have a direct effect to alleviate current needs in forecasting. The editors and their colleagues from ETH and MeteoSwiss, as well as the dedicated team of co-authors are to be congratulated for having produced a solid and valuable document in an appealing layout.

Reference

Binder, P. and C. Schär(Eds.), 1995: The MAP Design Proposal, 63pp. [Available from: MAP Programme Office, c/o MeteoSwiss, Krähbühlstr. 58, 8044 Zürich, Switzerland]

MAP Newsletter. April 1995