The DTC currently focuses its testing and evaluation of state-of-the-art data assimilation techniques on their application to limited area mesoscale models. Testing and evaluation by our data assimilation team currently focuses coupling data assimilation systems with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model for both mid-latitude and tropical cyclone applications. New data assimilation techniques considered for testing and evaluation can originate from NOAA/NCEP or developers located in research laboratories and universities.

The ultimate goal of the DTC's data assimilation systems testing and evaluation activities is to evaluate the performance of a new data assimilation technique or data type for extended retrospective periods. Such extended period testing provides a robust data set for objective forecast verification, including the assessment of statistical significance. And yet, important information can also be gathered by considering case studies. Hence, some data assimilation system testing and evaluation activities may include a hierarchy of tests ranging from case studies to extended periods.