Global Systems Laboratory
Forecast systems that deliver solutions
Explore GSL
Who we are
In a world where technology and Earth system science are advancing rapidly, the Global Systems Laboratory (GSL) stands at the forefront of atmospheric research. The core of GSL’s culture is a dynamic and forward-thinking spirit that drives our investment in people, partnerships, and organizational performance. GSL is a space where innovation and science converge in a hybrid and collaborative environment.
GSL is one of ten NOAA Research Laboratories and is located in Boulder, Colorado. Our research improves environmental prediction models, develops state-of-the-science decision support tools, visualization systems, and uses high-performance computing technology and artificial intelligence research to support a Weather-Ready, Fire-Ready Nation.
Our Research Serves The Nation
The research we do improves weather data, forecasts, and computing techniques used by industry, decision-makers, and stakeholders. Our work makes the nation’s operations safer and more efficient, helps protect lives and property, and promotes economic prosperity.
Public Safety
GSL’s models and technology help emergency managers respond to weather threats quickly.
Aviation
Our tools help the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reduce air traffic delays and increase safety.
Energy
GSL’s weather models facilitate planning for variability in the energy industry.
Fire Weather
Decision support systems and smoke models developed by GSL help with wildfire operations.
News from GSL
Stay informed about the latest research developments, partnerships, and innovations.
- HRRRCast Version 3: New release of NOAA’s experimental regional AI forecast model
NOAA’s experimental, AI-powered regional forecast model has been upgraded a second time with the March 2026 release of HRRRCast Version 3. As part of the Global Systems Laboratory’s efforts to accelerate its development and delivery to operations, its new features add another layer of capabilities to the promising system. “HRRRCast makes 3 km ensemble forecasting… Read more: HRRRCast Version 3: New release of NOAA’s experimental regional AI forecast model - NOAA Testbeds evaluate the Rapid Refresh Forecast System
The Rapid Refresh Forecast System (RRFS) is NOAA’s next-generation, rapidly updating, high-resolution weather model. Like the GSL-led, flagship High-Resolution Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model, it focuses on the short-term forecast, providing highly detailed, hourly updates. RRFS, however, builds on this by leveraging some of the best capabilities of several existing systems, taking a major step forward… Read more: NOAA Testbeds evaluate the Rapid Refresh Forecast System - GSL leads a field demonstration of boundary layer observing system
GSL continues to work with partners to expand NOAA’s lower atmosphere observing capabilities. In March, GSL Senior Scientist Dr. Dave Turner participated in a deployment and training session on the Atmospheric Sounder Spectrometer by Infrared Spectral Technology (ASSIST) at a NOAA test facility in Sterling, Virginia. ASSIST is a ground-based system that collects detailed spectral… Read more: GSL leads a field demonstration of boundary layer observing system
DESI Digest: Turning Forecasts into Visual Insight
DESI Digest showcases powerful visualizations from NOAA’s Dynamic Ensemble-based Scenarios for IDSS (DESI) project. These quick, impactful videos turn complex forecasts into clear insights that support emergency managers, forecasters, and the public.
Our Goals
Invest in people, predictions, and products that drive impact.
People
Invest in people, partnerships, and organizational performance.
Predictions
Develop start-of-the-art Earth-system prediction capabilities.
Products
Revolutionize products and services to enable informed decision-making.
