Next Generation Data and Computing Facility NCAR “Data Center” project An NCAR-led computing ‘facility’ for the study of the Earth system

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility Science that can be done now Millenial climate ensembles (10C/month on IBM Power 4) Weather Research Forecast Geophysical Turbulence Fire storm front modeling Space weather More…

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility The problem NCAR Mesa Lab computer facility is quickly becoming obsolete Power, cooling and floor space will be inadequate beyond the next procurement Science is being restricted by focusing on capacity ahead of capability

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility A solution A new computing facility (not at the Mesa Lab) Extensive investigations into options, working with consultants resulted in a detailed set of options Provides for 5-20 years of computing (capacity and capability) based on current and predicted future trends in CMOS technology Allows NCAR to reach beyond its current research scope

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility Vision A multi (computer) generational computing facility providing an end-to- end capability and capacity to address some of the most challenging environmental problems that face us today The people, expertise, partners and community working synergistically

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility Science that could be done: examples Understanding of fundamental physical processes in the Sun-Earth system Climate and weather - coupled Decision support - e.g. solar storms, Hurricane Katrina Energy management Solid earth and environmental engineering NCAR committee and partners will scope/define these options

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility The Facility needed Data Center Expansion Report: up to $75M for new facility or equivalent Additional computing increment costs, operation costs, and infrastructure costs 20,000 (initial to 60,000) sq. ft. 4 (to 13+) MW power + generators Cooling, etc. On 13 acres (20 year lifetime) Accommodates computers, staff, open space, initial and future requirements

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility Colorado The place to compute Connected, concerned, and active World-class facility as part of a world-respected organization Strong local connections Strong community leadership and partnership Strong commercial connections Strong local/state political interest Pushing technology development for Colorado: small and large companies

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility The Benefit Unprecedented capability and capacity in a virtual facility Opportunity to build new/ stronger partnerships and relations Jobs in the Front Range Resources for Colorado institutions to perform new work and attract new staff/students

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility The Expertise NCAR - community facilitator and integrator (people) 45+ years of building among the most advance simulation, assimilation, analysis, and vizualization codes/tools 45+ years of direct benefit to university community Strong ties to CU

Next Generation Data and Computing Facility The Schedule Formed NCAR committee to guide project Forming Blue Ribbon Panel and hold one-day workshop - late Sep./ early Oct Project plan development Oct-Dec Formalize partnerships - Oct-Dec Presentation to UCAR board Oct. 3, NSF - mid-Oct. Community engagement - Nov-Jan Complete plan preparation - Jan-Feb 2006 Initiate facility - June 2006? First electrons - before June 2008-March 2009?