Interactive Java graphics of network-distributed in situ data sets in a collaborative tool environment

The collaboration of scientists that are not located at the same site poses many difficulties. The old paradigm of mailing, faxing, or ftp-ing documents and graphics is unwieldy and cumbersome. The process of analyzing and interpreting data often involves significant discussion between collaborating scientists. Presently these discussions must take place in person to effectively exchange information regarding graphical representations of data and analysis products. These communications are much less effective when they take place via mail (electronic and/or postal) or phone. The loss of communicative effectiveness is primarily due to the difficulty and imprecision of a strictly verbal exchange regarding graphical information, e.g. indicating a specific minimum in temperature from a CTD cast. Removing the major barriers to effective collaboration between scientists not located at the same site, will improve the discussions that scientists can conduct about data and analyses. Scientists working on problems related to describing, monitoring and predicting changes in the Earth's environment are located across the country. Improvements in communication will translate into improved science.