A web-based resource discovery facility for a geo-data server

Within the frame of the Italian Programme of Research in Antarctica, a main goal is to design and implement a system suitable to manage and diffuse scientific data and information concerning the Italian expeditions. This article deals with the study and the design of a resource discovery system, based on a Web interface, for searching and downloading data stored in a Geo-Data Server. The main features 01' the Geo-Data Server are the definition 01' a cartographic and image database, following international standards, a relational catalog containing meta-information concerning the data archived, and a high-level interface to access the system. The structure and the main elements 01' the Geo-Data Server are shown together with an analysis of the specific characteristics and functions of the system itself, using the latest state of the art technology and appropriate standards. The advantages and features 01' the approach followed have been tested by developing a system containing a meta-information database, a GIS component. a search engine and a simple interface to access the data derived t'rom Italian expeditions to Antarctica.