The output files from the MODIS Ocean Processing Code are in HDF-EOS format. These files can be viewed using a number of different software packages. Four useful software packages are briefly described here.
SeaDAS (SeaWiFS Data Analysis System) was designed to read, process and display SeaWiFS and OCTS output data files. This software may also be capable (in the future) of displaying MODIS output data files. This system is user-friendly, with an extensive range of possible manipulations that can be made to the data to produce high-quality graphical output. Further details can be found at the SeaDAS home page. Note that IDL is required to run this software.
IDL (Interactive Data Language) can also be used to read, manipulate, process and display these data files. However, this software requires knowledge of IDL-specific commands to produce the required results, which may be difficult for users in the short term. In the long term, however, this software can provide more flexibility with the possible display and processing of the data. Details regarding IDL can be found at the IDL home page (warning: cookies galore!).
Matlab is software similar to IDL, and can also be used to read and view HDF files. Further details can be found at the Math Works home page.
NOeSYS can also be used to read, manipulate, process and display HDF data files. One of the NOeSYS components, the SciSpy Browser, is freely available from Research Systems. This browser can be used to view various HDF objects, and to convert text or binary files to HDF format. Further information on the NOeSYS software and SciSpy Browser can be found at the Research Systems home page.
Documented by Jasmine S. Bartlett, COAS, Oregon State University.