MM5

DESCRIPTION

The Fifth-Generation NCAR / Penn State Mesoscale Model (MM5) is the latest in a series that developed from a mesoscale model used by Anthes at Penn State in the early 70's that was later documented by Anthes and Warner (1978). Since that time, it has undergone many changes designed to broaden its usage. These include (i) a multiple-nest capability, (ii) nonhydrostatic dynamics, which allows the model to be used at a few-kilometer scale, (iii) multitasking capability on shared- and distributed-memory machines, (iv) a four-dimensional data-assimilation capability, and (v) more physics options.

The model (known as MM5) is supported by several auxiliary programs, which are referred to collectively as the MM5 modeling system. The Penn State MM5 Web site provides a schematic diagram of the MM5 modeling system, as well as downloadable documentation.  Current MM5 forecasts can be found on the NASA Global Hydrology and Climate Center Web site.

SCALE AND AREAS OF APPLICATION

SURVEY COMMENTS

Ten survey respondents reported using MM5.  These respondents scored it as either somewhat or very important to do their jobs. Of those, 40% rated the model as only somewhat able to do what they needed it to do and in high need of change to or development of a different model. The other 60% scored it as very good at doing what they needed it to do and only in moderate need of changing to a different model.

BENEFITS (PROS)

COSTS (CONS)

RECOMMENDATIONS