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National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR)

The National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR), a non-governmental U.S.-based institute, is situated in Boulder, Colorado. It aims at understanding and exploring the earth’s atmosphere and its interactions with the oceans, the Sun, the biosphere, and the human society. The ongoing researches at NCAR mainly focus on issues such as weather complexities, air quality, and climate change. The Institute houses some of the world's fastest modern supercomputers, which aid in modeling complex weather systems and the consequences of global warming. NCAR also uses several complex software models like the Atmosphere-Ocean Global Climate Models for a better understanding of our atmosphere.

The famous Mesa Laboratory, situated in the outskirts of Boulder, Colorado, is the flagship of NCAR. It was designed by the famous architect, I. M. Pei.  The site, laid down by Dan Kinley, is maintained as a natural preserve. One can spot fox, mule deer, and several other animals in this area. The Mesa Lab is open to the public seven days a week. Admission to weather trail and the main building is free for all. Besides, wheelchair access to all areas is also made available. This working research lab provides hands-on educational exhibits illustrating Earth’s changing climate and the weather phenomenon. These exhibits, plus the Cray super computer and other computers can be explored through self-guided tours and audio-tours.

The main role of NCAR is to provide tools, technology, and assistance to the community of atmospheric and geo-science researchers. The institute provides tools such as air craft and radars, and access to supercomputers that facilitate the ongoing researches. The ongoing research projects at NCAR deal with topics such as climate, atmospheric chemistry, weather ingredients, interactions between the Sun and the Earth, computer science innovation, and weather hazards to transportation.

• Address: 1850 Table Mesa Drive, Boulder, CO 80305
• Telephone: (303) 497-1000
• Website: www.ncar.ucar.edu

Top 5 National Parks

1. Great Smoky Mountains
2. Grand Canyon
3. Yosemite
4. Olympic
   
5. Yellowstone

All 58 national parks.