Posted on December 1, 2023 (Updated on July 18, 2025)

Getting Started with MOM6: A Step-by-Step Guide for Running the Model on Ubuntu Linux

Modeling & Prediction

Diving into Ocean Modeling: A Friendly Guide to Getting Started with MOM6 on Ubuntu Linux

So, you’re thinking about diving into ocean modeling? Awesome! The Modular Ocean Model version 6, or MOM6 as it’s usually called, is a seriously powerful tool. Developed by the brainy folks over at NOAA’s Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory (GFDL), it’s used all over the world for everything from understanding basic ocean processes to predicting long-term climate changes. Think of it as your virtual ocean laboratory!

Now, setting it up can seem a little daunting at first, especially if you’re new to the world of command lines and Fortran compilers. But trust me, it’s totally doable. This guide will walk you through the process of getting MOM6 up and running on your Ubuntu Linux system, step by step. Consider it your friendly companion on this ocean modeling adventure.

Before We Get Our Feet Wet: The Essentials

Before we jump in, let’s make sure you have all the right gear. Think of it like prepping for a real ocean voyage – you wouldn’t set sail without a map and compass, right? Here’s what you’ll need on your Ubuntu machine:

  • Ubuntu Linux: Obviously! This guide assumes you’re running a fairly recent version.
  • A Fortran Compiler (Like gfortran): MOM6 speaks Fortran, so you need something to translate. Gfortran is a popular choice.
  • NetCDF Libraries: These are like the filing cabinets for MOM6’s data. You’ll need both the C and Fortran versions.
  • MPI (Message Passing Interface): Want to run your simulations faster? MPI lets MOM6 use multiple processors at once. Open MPI is a good option.
  • Python: Some of MOM6’s helper tools use Python, so it’s good to have.
  • Git: This is how we’ll grab the MOM6 source code.

Step 1: Gathering Our Supplies (Installing Dependencies)

Okay, time to get our hands dirty! Open up a terminal on your Ubuntu system – that’s where the magic happens – and type in these commands. Don’t worry, I’ll explain what they do:

bash