Thredds

Thredds is a software system that allows users to discover and access scientific datasets. Developed by Unidata, an organization within the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research (UCAR), Thredds serves as a catalog and server for data. It provides a standardized way to expose collections of scientific data, making it easier for researchers to find and utilize the information they need.

The Thredds Data Server (TDS) is a key component. It can serve data from various sources, including NetCDF, GRIB, HDF, and others, over protocols like HTTP, OPeNDAP, and WMS. This flexibility allows different client applications to access the data regardless of its original format or storage location. The TDS also generates metadata that describes the datasets, aiding in their discovery.

Discovery is facilitated through the Thredds Catalog. These catalogs are XML documents that list datasets and provide information about them, such as their location, data type, and associated metadata. Users can browse these catalogs to find relevant data.

Thredds is widely used in fields such as meteorology, oceanography, and climate science, where large and complex datasets are common. Its ability to provide organized access and retrieval of scientific data has made it an invaluable tool for the research community.