The UBC ARC Chinook object storage system is approaching the end of its service lifespan. After supporting UBC researchers since 2020, Chinook will undergo a phased retirement, with full decommissioning planned for December 2027.
Researchers currently using Chinook, or considering it for future research projects, are encouraged to begin reviewing their storage needs and evaluating alternative storage options.
Key milestones include:
Effective immediately: New Chinook allocation requests are no longer being accepted.
July 2027: Chinook will transition to read-only access. Existing data can be downloaded, but no new data can be uploaded or modified.
December 2027: The service will be fully decommissioned, and any remaining data will be permanently deleted.
To support researchers throughout this transition, ARC has developed a dedicated transition webpage containing:
Transition timelines
Frequently asked questions
Alternative storage recommendations
Migration planning resources
Consultation and office hour information
UBC ARC is committed to supporting researchers throughout this process. Questions can be directed to arc.support@ubc.ca, and our team will be happy to provide guidance and assistance.
Please note that this decommissioning applies only to Chinook. The UBC ARC Sockeye service remains fully operational. In addition, Sockeyes is currently undergoing an infrastructure upgrade as part of a broader modernization initiative to support evolving research needs. Please refer to this announcement to learn more.