MICAPS Main Window with the four scenes. Each scene shows different types of meteorological data.

MICAPS was developed from 1994, and was released version 1 in 1997,version 2 in 2002 and version 3 in 2007. Thanks to the 17-year sustained development, MICAPS has become an internationally advanced weather forecast production system built on proprietary technologies, integrated the novel forecast technologies and techniques developed by China Meteorological Administration, and promoted S&T advancements in the meteorological community, raised the accuracy of forecasts in an effective and sustained manner. MICAPS has played a key role in both forecast operations and scientific research.

MICAPS is a modern full-purpose forecaster workstation system for processing and displaying meteorological data. The multiwindow technology and specialized applications make MICAPS the ideal tool not only for operational weather forecasting, but also for other applications where meteorological information plays a vital role for other business.

Meteorological data is displayed in layers which are combined into MICAPS scenes. There are layers for visualizing observational data, for example station measurements, radar echoes or vertical soundings. Other layers allow the visualization of model data. Several layers taken together comprise the MICAPS scenes.

You have many possibilities to configure the layers and scenes according to your own requirements. For example, you can change the order, display properties of the layers.

The MICAPS Main Window provides the framework for various areas of operation. It can contain up to four different scenes to visualize different data types. Besides the Main Window, secondary windows for specialized applications can be opened. Using these specialized applications, you can produce TlogP charts, time series charts or cross sections. Furthermore, you can use a single window for the automatic monitoring of incoming data.

MICAPS also offers time control and animation tool to display the dynamic changes of meteorological features.

Apart from generating products interactively with MICAPS , you can also generate products automatically with MICAPS.

The standard graphics workbench of Chinese forecasters.
Used by all local weather centers over China and national Centers and ocean forecast centers, etc.
An interactive system that integrates all meteorological, satellite, and radar data into one computer workstation.
Have the interactive capability allow forecasters to view, analysis, combine, and manipulate graphical and vector weather data.
Provides effective means for forecasters to prepare and issue forecasts.
Open and scalable architecture including data treatments and productions.
Platform: MS-Windows, Linux/Unix.

Editor Kong Yan