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How to Update an Existing Model in the EarthScope Earth Model Collaboration (EMC)

This guide explains the process for updating an existing Earth model in EMC.

1. Determine the Version/Revision Number

If the model data has changed, you must decide on an appropriate version or revision number before submission.
- Version: Use when significant scientific changes are made (e.g., new methodology, added datasets).
- Revision: Use for corrections, minor updates, or formatting changes.

Example: - Previous: r0.0 - Minor revision: r0.1 - Major update: r1.0

2. Document the Changes

Provide a short paragraph summarizing what has changed in the new version. This will be included in the EMC model description page.

Example:

This update corrects a sign error in the Vs parameter at depths greater than 100 km and includes new measurements for the western region based on 2024 seismic data.

3. Validate Metadata with the EMC Inspector

Run the EMC Inspector tool to ensure the new NetCDF file's metadata follows EMC and CF conventions.
- Check that all required global and variable attributes are present.
- Verify that data_layout and source attributes are properly set.
- Ensure geospatial attributes match the coordinate ranges in the data.

Command example: 

python emc_inspector.py your_model_file.nc

4. Validate Data Content with the EMC Explorer

Use the EMC Explorer tool to visually inspect and verify that the data values are correct.
- Plot key variables.
- Check for unexpected gaps or anomalies.
- Verify coordinate grids and projections.

Command example: 

python emc_explorer.py your_model_file.nc

5. Send the Update to EarthScope

Once validated:

  1. Attach the updated NetCDF file.
  2. Include your change description paragraph.
  3. State the new version/revision number.
  4. Send everything to: es-help@earthscope.org

Important:
If you have already communicated about this model via es-help@earthscope.org, always reply to one of the existing email threads instead of starting a new one. This ensures your update is tracked under the same ticket.

Following these steps will help ensure smooth and accurate updates to your EMC model.