NOAA 2000-284
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Carmeyia Gillis
10/25/00

NOAA SCIENCE CENTER HOSTS PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE

Ever wondered how meteorologists, oceanographers and other scientists provide national and international weather climate information and predictions? Join the National Weather Service and NOAA's National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service at the NOAA Science Center Open House, Saturday, Oct. 28, 2000, 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. at the World Weather Building in Camp Springs, Md., for a behind-the-scenes look at the world's largest weather computing complex and the nucleus of NOAA's weather prediction operations. Highlighting the achievements and future frontiers of weather prediction, this event promises to be a treat for weather enthusiasts.

"This year, NOAA celebrates its 30th Anniversary," said NOAA Administrator D. James Baker. "The open house is the perfect time to thank Americans for their support and showcase how their advocacy is helping to advance our knowledge of weather and climate."

Increasingly, America has become a nation of weather watchers, said retired Air Force Brig. Gen. Jack Kelly, director of the National Weather Service. "From El Niño to La Niña, Americans have become more weather savvy," Kelly said.

The NOAA Science Center is the nucleus of NOAA's weather prediction operations where meteorologists, oceanographers and other scientists work together to provide national and international weather and climate information and predictions. Researchers and satellite data processors from NOAA's satellite service provide vital data used in these predictions.

"Our directives are vast and our results are far reaching," said Louis Uccelllini, director of NOAA's National Centers for Environmental Prediction. "From the commercial airline industry to ship navigation, from Wall Street to Main Street – all of America's weather guidance starts here – and today, the public can come in to see exactly how we do our jobs."

Through exhibits and demonstrations, visitors will learn how NOAA's weather scientists use high-speed computers, NOAA satellites, and other technology to predict and track the weather.

The general public is invited to attend this event on Saturday, Oct. 28, 2000, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. The NOAA Science Center is located at 5200 Auth Road in Camp Springs, Md., just off of the Capital Beltway (I-495), Exit 7B. Admission is free. For more information, call (301) 763-8256.