NOAA Radar Operations Center
The NEXRAD Radar Operations Center (ROC) in Norman, Oklahoma provides centralized meteorological, computer software, maintenance and engineering support for all 158 operational NEXRAD (WSR-88D) radar systems deployed worldwide. Supported by the Departments of Commerce, Transportation and Defense, the ROC is responsible for modifying and enhancing the WSR-88D systems during their operational life to meet changing requirements, technology advances, and improved understanding of the application of these systems to real-time weather operations.
The ROC also operates and maintains WSR-88D test systems for the development of hardware and software upgrades to enhance maintenance, operation and provide new functionality. The facility houses a 24 hour, seven days a week help desk that assists radar sites with technical support.
The large, powerful radars are located throughout the United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and select Department of Defense locations overseas. Together, they form a network, which allows data from different radars to be combined into one picture.
The ROC was established in 1987 and located in Norman to be near the radar meteorology experts at the National Severe Storms Laboratory, which is also part of NOAA, and the University of Oklahoma.
“The work done at the Radar Operations Center is important to the nation because it directly impacts the ability of radars to provide information to forecasters who issue warnings and save lives.” - Rich Vogt, Director
1200 Westheimer Dr. Phone: 405.573.8803 Fax: 405.573.8830 |
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