Flexible Tools for Accessing the Cluster Archives

Abstract

Nowadays, multi-spacecraft analysis is becoming common practice. The lack of homogeneity in data archive structure, access types and data formats results in a lot of time spent to search, retrieve and reformat data. We have developed a software model dealing with these issues. In this model, we integrate an abstraction layer for accessing and caching archive data from different providers. A second abstraction layer allows converting the specific data formats into a common working format. This model has been implemented in the MIM software, developed by the Belgian Institute for Space Aeronomy. In particular, it provides a framework for accessing the CAA (Cluster Active Archive) and for exploiting Cluster data with multipoint analysis tools such as, e.g., gradient computation and magnetopause reconstruction.