Articles | Volume 11, issue 4
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-11-1405-2018
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-11-1405-2018
Model description paper
 | 
13 Apr 2018
Model description paper |  | 13 Apr 2018

OpenDrift v1.0: a generic framework for trajectory modelling

Knut-Frode Dagestad, Johannes Röhrs, Øyvind Breivik, and Bjørn Ådlandsvik

Abstract. OpenDrift is an open-source Python-based framework for Lagrangian particle modelling under development at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute with contributions from the wider scientific community. The framework is highly generic and modular, and is designed to be used for any type of drift calculations in the ocean or atmosphere. A specific module within the OpenDrift framework corresponds to a Lagrangian particle model in the traditional sense. A number of modules have already been developed, including an oil drift module, a stochastic search-and-rescue module, a pelagic egg module, and a basic module for atmospheric drift. The framework allows for the ingestion of an unspecified number of forcing fields (scalar and vectorial) from various sources, including Eulerian ocean, atmosphere and wave models, but also measurements or a priori values for the same variables. A basic backtracking mechanism is inherent, using sign reversal of the total displacement vector and negative time stepping. OpenDrift is fast and simple to set up and use on Linux, Mac and Windows environments, and can be used with minimal or no Python experience. It is designed for flexibility, and researchers may easily adapt or write modules for their specific purpose. OpenDrift is also designed for performance, and simulations with millions of particles may be performed on a laptop. Further, OpenDrift is designed for robustness and is in daily operational use for emergency preparedness modelling (oil drift, search and rescue, and drifting ships) at the Norwegian Meteorological Institute.

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Short summary
We have developed a computer code with ability to predict how various substances and objects drift in the ocean. This may be used to, e.g. predict the drift of oil to aid cleanup operations, the drift of man-over-board or lifeboats to aid search and rescue operations, or the drift of fish eggs and larvae to understand and manage fish stocks. This new code merges all such applications into one software tool, allowing to optimise and channel any available resources and developments.