The rationale for designing a server for ingesting, integrating, storing, and distributing the state of the atmosphere is presented. The server supports distributed interactive simulations and can be used for extensive training exercises. An overview of the server design is provided, with a review of each of its five component modules: the database, integrator, viewer, distributor and simulator. The server supports client applications in several modes, including predistribution of an archived database and active distribution for live exercises in a real-time atmospheric environment. Each component of the weather server is discussed in terms of the factors that influenced the design rationale.

The set of variables representing the state of the atmosphere was selected by a three step process: first, atmospheric features were identified and characteristics of the atmosphere that correspond to the features were specified. Second, the effects of the atmospheric environment were related to features observed, such as thunderstorms, blizzards, etc. Finally, characteristic atmospheric variables were mapped into the effects that they produced. These effects impact decisions made at the command and field levels. A typical scenario is presented to show that a variety of atmospheric conditions and effects must be considered to support informed decision processes and accurate personnel training in live, virtual, and constructed exercises.