Background
Data from the online service have been extensively tested and validated.
Satellite data, calibrated against buoys, were used to calibrate model wave and wind parameters.
You can use one of the links below to download additional information on the service.
The wave model validation report describes the calibration of the global model with satellite data and,
by comparison with buoys, shows that this calibration improves the model data.
Please note that the set of satellite data used for model calibration is based on
but differs from the satellite data presented by the online service.
To gain speed, waveclimate.com also uses some simplified methods and compresses model data.
Moreover, waveclimate.com is based on part of our in-house wave model database:
the online service covers the period 1992 to present whereas our in-house consultancy database starts in 1979.
- Validation of the wave model database (PDF)
- Differences between waveclimate.com and the wave model database (PDF)
The wave ray model document explains the method used to translate waves to the coast and it provides tips on 'best' model configuration for example the choice of the offshore boundary. In addition, you will find handy rules of thumb to estimate shallow water effects as well as limitations of the wave ray model with reference to more complex nearshore models like SWAN.
Wind and wave parameters provided by the service are wind speed and direction, significant wave height, mean wave direction, zero-crossing wave period, mean wave period and peak wave period. Please check the definition of these parameters.
Service overview, fitness for purpose and limitations (in relation to in-house consultancy) are described in the below document. The document also provides statistics on the quality of the satellite data presented by waveclimate.com.