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.

Who we are

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.

GSL launches new Research Portal to increase public access of its researchJuly 1, 2026
GSL strives for transparency and public accessibility of its research. As part of this effort, we have launched a Research Portal on the public GSL website. Here, you can explore the major research projects and products in GSL’s research portfolio, including some of those that have or will soon transition to operations in the National… Read more: GSL launches new Research Portal to increase public access of its research
Software engineering for more efficient aerosol modelingJune 9, 2026
One important but often overlooked part of numerical weather prediction is the speed and efficiency with which a model can produce a forecast. Accuracy is always a top priority in weather forecasting, but the models must also be able to operate within reasonable computer processing time and data storage needs. GSL’s development teams invest heavily… Read more: Software engineering for more efficient aerosol modeling
GSL participates in two new fire weather observing system deploymentsMay 29, 2026
As part of ongoing activities to advance NOAA’s fire weather research and forecasting capabilities, GSL and several partner NOAA laboratories have deployed two new fire weather observing systems in the western U.S. GSL, along with the Air Resources Laboratory (ARL), Global Monitoring Laboratory (GML), and Physical Sciences Laboratory (PSL), have developed these observing systems to… Read more: GSL participates in two new fire weather observing system deployments

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.

Several fires burning across the High Plains of Kansas, Colorado, Oklahoma, and New Mexico prompted evacuations this week. This experimental RRFS forecast shows the predicted smoke from these fires, and how they are affected by a sudden wind shift caused by a strong cold front crashing to the south. Wind shifts are among the most dangerous hazards for firefighters. This smoke model will transition to NOAA operations as part of RRFS later this year.