Support FACT
Support FACT

How to Submit Data

FACT Data Node

Getting Started

The FACT Network uses a cloud-based data sharing platform called the FACT Node. Designed by the Ocean Tracking Network and supported by SECOORA, the FACT Node operates independently but is connected to other OTN-designed nodes to allow for cross-matching of tags to receiver detections. Thus, if you already report your data to an OTN-designed node (e.g. the ACT Network, OTN, Migramar, Pirat) you do not need to submit your data to the FACT Node. You are still considered a scientific member of FACT if you submit your data to another node as long as you have registered with FACT.

FACT scientific members upload their data via their respective, password protected folder on Research Workspace. The FACT Data Team processes the files semi-annually through the FACT Node (herein referred to as ‘the Node’) and deposits detection extracts back into the folder. You will be notified via email of an approaching deadline to submit data.

We accept data from current projects and historic projects. If you would like assistance in organizing and loading a historic project, please email Data@theFACTNetwork.org.

How to Submit Data

   

Step 1. Provide Background Information on Your Project(s)

Only done once for each project.

All telemetry projects are broken into tag projects and array projects – even if they are run by the same group. Project metadata forms are used to gather background information and create your private folder(s) in research workspace and the Node. Only the people designated on the project metadata forms are granted access to the folder(s).

Email the metadata forms to Data@theFACTNetwork.org.

Download FACT Tag Project Metadata Template
Download FACT Array Project Metadata Template

Step 2. Receive Email Invite To Your Research Workspace Folder

Only done once.

A member of the Data Team will process your project metadata forms and create a folder for each project at www.researchworkspace.com. You will receive an email invitation to the folder. Please follow the instructions in the email and sign up for a free account. You only need to reply to one email invite. When you log on, you will see all your project folders.

Step 3. Authorize Vendor To Provide Technical Specifications Of Your Equipment

Only done once.

Equipment specifications are used in checking submitted tag and deployment information. For example, with the specs we can provide calculated sensor outputs (like temperature) in detection extracts and ensure the serial number matches the tag ID code in the tagging metadata form. The spec sheets are the same as what is sent to you when you purchase telemetry equipment. By filling out the form, you authorize Innovasea to provide the FACT Data Team with your tech specs. You may select to do this on a one time basis or for all purchases.

Complete the authorization form and email it to Data@theFACTNetwork.org.

Download Innovasea FACT Authorization Form

As an alternate to Innovasea providing the information directly, you may upload your spec sheets into your folder in research workspace.

Step 4. Upload Tagging Metadata

Complete every time new tags are deployed.

Please upload your tagging metadata form in the ‘to be filed’ folder in research workspace. The VEMBU can help!

Download FACT Tagging Metadata Template

Step 5. Upload Deployment Metadata And Detections

Complete every time receivers are retrieved (shortform and detections).

Please upload raw, unedited vrl files with your deployment form in the ‘to be filed’ folder in research workspace. Detections will be corrected for drift during the quality control process. If you have a mobile receiver (e.g. receiver on a glider), upload the associated telemetry file and a mobile deployment metadata form in addition to the unedited detection file. The VEMBU can help!

Download FACT Deployment Shortform Template
Download FACT Mobile Deployment Shortform Template

Step 6. Receive Detection Extracts

Congratulations! You have data! Researchers will be notified via email when new detection extracts are available in their ‘Data Products’ folder.