Articles | Volume 18, issue 19
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-18-6671-2025
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-18-6671-2025
Model experiment description paper
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01 Oct 2025
Model experiment description paper | Highlight paper |  | 01 Oct 2025

An evolving Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 7 (CMIP7) and Fast Track in support of future climate assessment

John P. Dunne, Helene T. Hewitt, Julie M. Arblaster, Frédéric Bonou, Olivier Boucher, Tereza Cavazos, Beth Dingley, Paul J. Durack, Birgit Hassler, Martin Juckes, Tomoki Miyakawa, Matt Mizielinski, Vaishali Naik, Zebedee Nicholls, Eleanor O'Rourke, Robert Pincus, Benjamin M. Sanderson, Isla R. Simpson, and Karl E. Taylor

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Cited articles

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Executive editor
The Coupled Model Intercomparison Project lies at the core of global climate prediction. This paper details the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 7 (CMIP7) and its Fast Track initiative. By transitioning into a continuous climate modeling program with enhanced coordination and federated planning, CMIP7 aims to address key climate questions more effectively. The expansion of the Diagnostic, Evaluation, and Characterization of Klima (DECK) experiments—including the addition of historical simulations, effective radiative forcing assessments, and CO₂-emissions-driven experiments—strengthens the foundation for climate model evaluation and projection. Additionally, the AR7 Fast Track ensures timely delivery of critical climate simulation data to support the upcoming 7th Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Assessment Report. This paper highlights how these advancements in experimental protocols and infrastructure support not only scientific understanding but also inform policy-making and climate services, ultimately contributing to global efforts in climate adaptation and mitigation.
Short summary
The seventh phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP7) coordinates efforts to answer key and timely climate science questions and facilitate delivery of relevant multi-model simulations for prediction and projection; characterization, attribution, and process understanding; and vulnerability, impact, and adaptation analysis. Key to the CMIP7 design are the mandatory Diagnostic, Evaluation and Characterization of Klima and optional Assessment Fast Track experiments.
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