driftViewer: Optimization of drifter trajectory search and export of oceanographic parameters

Abstract

The study and analysis of drifter trajectories, such as buoys and floating devices, have become fundamental to understanding oceanographic phenomena. The detailed analysis of oceanographic parameters using specialized software allows researchers to study environmental changes on different temporal and spatial scales. This article explores the importance and functionalities of this type of software, highlighting its role in improving research methodologies and generating scientific knowledge applicable to oceanography and meteorology. drifViewer is a MATLAB package designed to optimize the search for drift trajectories and analyze oceanographic parameters. It allows researchers to search for drift trajectories in the AOML dataset quickly, create summary tables, and export data to MATLAB and NetCDF formats. driftViewer contributes to scientific research in oceanography and marine geology by improving the ability to model and predict drifting currents, which is essential for studies on climate change, ocean current dynamics, and marine habitat conservation. It is also a useful tool for studying the trajectories of oil slicks, microplastics, and chemical and living species.