BitTorrent is Apt for Geophysical Data Collection and Distribution

TL;DR

This paper proposes using BitTorrent, a peer-to-peer network technology, for real-time collection and distribution of geophysical data, demonstrated through a GNSS station data transfer proof-of-concept.

Contribution

It introduces a novel application of BitTorrent for geophysical data handling, enabling fast, reliable, and transparent real-time data sharing in scientific research.

Findings

Successful transfer of GNSS data using BitTorrent

Demonstrated feasibility of peer-to-peer geophysical data distribution

Potential for improved data aggregation and sharing in geosciences

Abstract

This article covers a nouveau idea of how to collect and handle geophysical data with a peer-to-peer network in near real-time. The text covers a brief introduction to the cause, the technology, and the particular case of collecting data from GNSS stations. We describe the proof-of-concept implementation that has been tested. The test was conducted with an experimental GNSS station and a data aggregation facility. In the test, original raw GNSS signal measurements were transferred to the data aggregation center and subsequently to the consumer. Our implementation utilized BitTorrent to communicate and transfer data. The solution could be used to establish the majority of data aggregation centers activities to provide fast, reliable, and transparent real-time data handling experience to the scientific community.