GLOBE Data Entry FAQs

Click on the arrow to show the answer to the Frequently Asked Question (FAQ). Have questions about collecting, entering, or accessing GLOBE data? This section covers everything from data entry protocols to visualizing and downloading environmental data. It’s your go-to resource for understanding how GLOBE data works and how you can use it in your own research or classroom activities.

The GLOBE Program develops scientific protocols in collaboration with scientists and tests them in classrooms worldwide. This ensures standardized, research-quality data suitable for both student and professional scientific research.

GLOBE volunteer observers from around the world contribute observational data. The Clouds, Mosquito Habitats, Land Cover, and Trees protocols do not require training. Data for these protocols are submitted using the GLOBE Observer app. Additional training is required to submit data for more complex GLOBE scientific measurement protocols. Data can be inputted through the GLOBE Observer app or globe.gov website.

GLOBE supports Earth science research through collection of atmosphere, biosphere, hydrosphere, and pedosphere data using standardized research-grade scientific data collection protocols. GLOBE data are open and are used by students (primary school through graduate) and professional scientists in research projects. 

After completing GLOBE training, you can enter data by clicking the “Enter Data” link on the GLOBE.gov homepage (scroll down from main content) or navigating to “GLOBE Data” on the menu bar.

The 24-hour format is used to avoid confusion between a.m. and p.m. and is the GLOBE standard.

Report the exact time, including minutes (e.g., “18:45,” not “19:00”).

Most atmospheric measurements can be observed at any time, but some require specific times. For example, Daily Atmosphere Measurements have recommended times.

To find recommended age or grade ranges for each protocol, check the Teacher’s Guide Toolkit. Several measurements will say “ALL” because they can be used by all age ranges.  

For atmosphere observations, users can take data measurements anywhere within 100 meters of the weather station location. For measurements from a distance farther away than that, users will need to define a new site. Users should always take new GPS readings for each new site because they may be slightly different.