Editorial: Data perceptualization for climate science communication

Sonification and visualization are tools for communicating a deeper understanding of the climate crisis and for stimulating action. Technically, they are umbrella terms for the translation of data into sound and light, respectively. They are examples of perceptualization, the study and design of ways to recast scientific knowledge into expressions that inform, engage, and excite. In February 2022, the Guest Editors organized a Conference on Data Art for Climate Action (DACA). The present collection of articles is a natural continuation, aiming to extend and deepen the discussion on sonification and visualization, and to stimulate a renewed look at what these techniques can do for science. How might scientists and designers together approach data art as a means for discovery and communication? Gathered in this Research Topic are four articles that deal with the characterization and systematic translation of climate science into sound and light, music and image, composition and narrative. Reflecting practical, methodological, and theoretical aspects of the topic, it contains a systematic review, a perspective or position paper, a brief research report, and a piece of original research. Each of the articles engages with climate science, communication, data, and action in a different way: via aesthetics and characteristics, artistic affectivization, narrative, and knowledge mapping. Copyright © 2023 Lindborg, Chopra and Groß-Vogt.