Follow microscopy data from its acquisition to long-term access and distribution. Select a component or use the arrows to explore the journey.

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End user / Data producerFacility-specific Acquires the microscopy data and provides its scientific context. OperatorFacility-specific Operates and maintains the local OpenEM Ingestor. DeveloperOpen Source Community Develops SciCat, storage and distribution services.

Central services are provided and maintained by PSI.

Step 1 of 5

Acquire microscopy data

The journey starts when an end user or data producer creates an acquisition with an electron microscope. This person is responsible for the source data.

Extract and complete metadata

The end user starts the ingestion process. The OpenEM Ingestor then extracts available metadata automatically. The data producer reviews it and adds scientific context that cannot be derived from the files.

Transfer and catalogue

OpenEM transfers the raw data and metadata together and creates a dataset record in SciCat, making the dataset findable and traceable.

Preserve and retrieve

The raw data is preserved in long-term storage (LTS). Authorised users can find the catalogue record and retrieve the associated files when needed.

Distribute to third-party repositories

The Depositor prepares selected data and metadata for submission to third-party repositories, extending access beyond the OpenEM platform.