A Demonstration of Data Preservation Connections using OAI-ORE with NASA MODIS Data

The Open Archives Initiative - Object Reuse and Exchange (OAI-ORE) protocol was developed to enable the exchange of information about complex e-science objects. This paper summarizes a project undertaken through sponsorship of the Earth Science Information Partners (ESIP) to determine whether or not the OAI-ORE protocol is capable of adequately describing and making available information about digital data sets in the Earth sciences. The primary objective of the project is to test the capabilities of the OAI-ORE protocol, using provenance and context information from the MODIS 500m daily Snow Cover product, (MOD10A1) as derived from NASA's MODIS instrument. The project methodology leverages two reference models -- the full suite of information as described in the OAIS reference model, and the USGCRP report Global Change Requirements for Long Term Archiving, as well as serving as a use-case to evaluate the emerging Earth Science Information Partners (ESIP) Provenance and Context Content Standard. The result of the project is a graphical depiction of the provenance connections for the MOD10A1 data product, shown in relation to all precursor data products using the ORE protocol, published using a simple web site. We will discuss the project conclusions along with a summary of problems and successes encountered.