Videowall for scientific data visualization and exploration

Datasets used in environmental science are becoming ever larger. The increased sophistication of measuring instruments (including satellites) and computer simulations means that researchers need to understand terabytes or petabyes of data. Visualization is a very important tool in extracting meaning from very large and complex datasets, because the human brain is extremely good at spotting features and patterns that a computer cannot.

Although most scientists use ordinary desktop computing facilities in their everyday work, these facilities are often inadequate for visualizing and analysing large-volume and high-resolution datasets. Therefore we propose to build a videowall consisting of eight high-resolution screens together with a powerful graphics workstation. This will allow scientists to visualize very large datasets and collaborate together to understand them.

Industrial partners and policymakers will benefit from the ability to see visual representations of complex data (e.g. the effects of different climate scenarios), enabling them to understand better the conclusions that scientists have reached. We anticipate using the videowall system for outreach and knowledge exchange events. The University is involved in many activities connected with industrial collaboration (including TSB-funded projects, NERC Knowledge Exchange project and close interactions with bodies such as the Space Applications Catapult).