Data visualization is one way that people put scientific data into a wider context. To learn more, see Virtual Globes: NSIDC Data on Google Earth.

The data and information that researchers generate during IPY will build on the foundation of previous IPYs, and add to the body of scientific knowledge about Earth. NSIDC is involved in several important data and information efforts for IPY:

IPY Data and Information Service (IPYDIS)
IPYDIS is an international federation of data centers, archives, and networks working to ensure proper stewardship of IPY and related data.

Exchange for Local Observations and Knowledge of the Arctic (ELOKA)
ELOKA seeks to facilitate collection and use of local observations and knowledge of the Arctic.

Discovery and Access of Historic Literature from the IPYs (DAHLI)
DAHLI seeks to create an online bibliography and database of materials from previous IPYs.

Discovery, Access, and Delivery of Data for IPY (DADDI)
NSIDC is collaborating with the Center for Earth Science Information Network, the Oak Ridge National Laboratory, and the Canadian Cryospheric Information Network to develop a system to improve access to Arctic coastal data. DADDI plans to build the system using Web services that IPY could readily adapt.

Cooperative Arctic Data and Information Service (CADIS)

CADIS seeks to provide near-real-time data delivery, a repository for data storage, a portal for data discovery, and tools to manipulate data. CADIS will focus on supporting the Arctic Observing Network and Study of Environmental Arctic Change programs, but will also be a step toward comprehensive long-term Arctic data management. The project is a joint effort of the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research, the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and NSIDC.