You will be aware that ECMWF will implement its new cycle 48r1 on 27th June 2023. This cycle upgrade brings significant changes, notably higher spatial resolution for ensemble (ENS) and daily 100 ensemble perturbed runs (ENS-EXT). At the same time, for GRIB 2 encoded parameters, a compression method called CCSDS will be introduced. Therefore, if you haven't tried the 48r1 test data, we urge you to take immediate action so that your production system will be transitioned to the new data smoothly.

You will find more details at the following page: https://confluence.ecmwf.int/display/FCST/Implementation+of+IFS+Cycle+48r1.

To start accessing test data: 

• For users who have access to the test Product Requirements Editor (TPREd) for the configuration of 48r1 data, the application is available at this link and is connected to the test ECPDS system (XDISS):  https://products.ecmwf.int/esuite/requirements
• For users who do not have access to the test Product Requirements Editor (TPREd) for the configuration of 48r1 data, you can request access to 48R1 test data at our support portal https://support.ecmwf.int

ECMWF will run also run a webinar on 1st June 2023 (13:00 UTC/14:00 BST/15:00 CEST).  The webinar will focus on the data side: how to access the test data, important changes, and handling CCSDS compression. Please check here for the registration link for the webinar: https://confluence.ecmwf.int/display/FCST/Implementation+of+IFS+Cycle+48r1 .

We thank you for your patience during this complex cycle upgrade.