OpenDrift is a Python-based framework for modelling the trajectories and behaviour of particles, objects, or substances drifting in the ocean and atmosphere. Developed primarily for scientific and operational use, it enables users to simulate the movement and fate of entities such as oil spills, drifting debris, search and rescue targets, and biological particles using environmental data inputs.
Rather than being a single-purpose model, OpenDrift is designed as a flexible and modular framework. It allows users to build or extend specialised models by defining physical or biological processes, while reusing a common simulation core. The software can ingest data from a wide range of sources including ocean, atmospheric, and wave models, making it suitable for research, forecasting, and environmental analysis workflows.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Generic framework for modelling trajectories and fate of particles in oceanic and atmospheric environments.
- Modular design enabling custom models for applications such as oil drift, search and rescue, and biological transport.
- Supports input data from multiple sources including ocean, wind, and wave models in various formats.
- Efficient and vectorised Python implementation capable of simulating large numbers of particles.
- Allows forward and backward simulations in time, including backtracking of drift paths.
- Outputs results in CF-compliant NetCDF format for further analysis and visualisation.
- Includes a basic graphical user interface alongside a Python API for flexible usage.
Website: github.com/OpenDrift/opendrift
Support:
Developer: OpenDrift contributors
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
OpenDrift is written in Python. Learn Python with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
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