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Global sea-Ice and Sea Surface Temperature (GISST) dataset

You probably don't want GISST, use HadISST instead. This dataset is provided for the sole purpose of direct comparison with earlier work where GISST was used. Use on its own is contrary to the terms and conditions.

GISST, (Global sea-Ice and Sea Surface Temperature) is a gridded dataset of sea-surface temperature anomalies and sea-ice coverage fractions covering the period 1856-present. The current version of the dataset is GISST2.3b, which is described in the paper cited below in the references section.

GISST was originally developed as an extention to MOHSST that provided a globally complete SST analysis and sea-ice data. This is required to drive atmospheric general circulation models.

GISST has now been superceeded by HadISST. We now recommend use of HadISST instead of GISST for all purposes. GISST is only still available in case it is needed for direct comparison with earlier work where GISST was used. GISST is no longer updated or developed.

The sea-ice component of GISST contains known inhomogeneities, especially in the antarctic. GISST should not be used for studies of sea-ice variability.

Brief description of the data

GISST SSTs are based on the in-situ data set MOHSST, infilled using Empirical Orthogonal Function (EOF) interpolation.

GISST sea-ice fractions are based on a mixture of charts, satellite observations and statistical interpolations.

For a detailed description of the dataset and its production process, see the paper cited below.

The current version of the dataset is GISST 2.3B.

Actual temperatures Janurary 1998

Go to download page Data are available from the download page without charge for the purposes of private study and scientific research, but please read the terms and conditions.

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References

When using the data set in a paper, the following is the correct citation to use:

Version 2.2 of the Global sea-Ice and Sea Surface Temperature data set, 1903-1994 by N.A. Rayner, E.b. Horton, D.E. Parker, C.K. Folland and R.B. Hackett, CRTN74 September 1996 (pdf 6.8Mb)

Other information

GISST is no longer updated or developed. Please use HadISST instead.

Dataset produced in collaboration with:

Met Office