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GSL

Forecast systems that deliver solutions

Learn how we're advancing research in Renewable and Clean Energy

The Global Systems Laboratory (GSL) is one of ten NOAA Research Laboratories and is located in Boulder, Colorado. Our research improves environmental prediction models, develops state-of-the-science decision support tools, visualization systems, and uses high-performance computing technology to support a Weather-Ready Nation.

GSL strives to advance its workforce scientifically, technically, and professionally. We are also committed to increased diversity equity, inclusion and accessibility as well as a strong foundation for career growth.

GSL's research serves the nation

The research we do improves weather data, forecasts, and computing techniques used by industry, decision-makers, and stakeholders.

Our work makes the nation's operations safer and more efficient, helps protect lives and property, and promotes economic prosperity.

Public Safety

GSL’s models and technology help emergency managers respond to weather threats quickly.

Aviation

Our tools help the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reduce air traffic delays and increase safety.

Energy

GSL’s weather models enable the energy industry to plan for the variable nature of wind and solar energy.

Fire Weather

Decision support systems and smoke models developed by GSL help with wildfire operations.

Latest News

GSL at the 2024 European Geophysical Union General Assembly

April 02, 2024

GSL will present new research at the 2024 European Geophysical Union General Assembly in Vienna, Austria. Topics include research to predict smoke, dust, and other aerosols, and advances in scientific computing and atmospheric physics. Research and Development within the Scientific Computing Branch of NOAA’s Global Systems Laboratory - Isidora Jankov,...

NOAA’s weather model predicts clouds cover on eclipse day, how the solar eclipse will influence weather

April 04, 2024

NOAA’s High Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR), model developed at GSL, predicts way more than temperature, wind, and precipitation. GSL researchers are working on forecasts of hourly wildfire potential, skin temperature, storm runoff, windspeed at wind turbine heights, and dozens of other parameters. But the HRRR is also eclipse-ready. The HRRR...

The Year of the Dragon Chinese New Year celebration at GSL

April 02, 2024

GSL scientists from China organized a special Chinese Lunar New Years Eve celebration on February 9, 2024 for the Year of the Dragon. The Dragon symbolizes power, nobleness, honor, luck, and success in traditional Chinese culture. The Dragon is a supernatural being unparalleled in talent and excellence. Preparations for Lunar...

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Successful Projects

Research-to-Operations (R2O)

GSL has a history of successfully transitioning atmospheric research into advanced products and services for weather operations.

Learn more about R2O

Regional Models

We are the leader in developing and evolving regional weather models. The Rapid Refresh, High-Resolution Rapid Refresh, and RAP Smoke are just a few.

Learn more about our models

Unified Forecast System

GSL is part of a major community effort to develop a coupled, comprehensive Earth modeling system.

Read how GSL supports the UFS

GSL Mission

Lead research and directed development through the transition of environmental data, models, products, tools, and services to support commerce, protect life and property, and promote a scientifically literate public.

Research Areas

Organizational Excellence, Earth System Prediction, Advanced Technologies, and Decision Support are the foundation to achieving the GSL Grand Challenge: Deliver actionable global storm-scale prediction and environmental information through advanced technologies to serve society.