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What is the difference between the CF standard_names `platform_id` and `platform_name`

Earth Science Asked by alex_danielssen on October 31, 2020

The two CF standard names platform_id and platform_name strike me as being redundantly similar. From their definition in the CF standard name table:

platform_id:
alias: station_wmo_id
A variable with the standard name of platform_id contains strings which help to identify the platform from which an observation was made.
For example, this may be a WMO station identification number.
A "platform" is a structure or vehicle that serves as a base for mounting sensors. Platforms include, but are not limited to, satellites, aeroplanes, ships, buoys, instruments, ground stations, and masts.

platform_name:
alias: station_description
A variable with the standard name of platform_name contains strings which help to identify the platform from which an observation was made.
For example, this may be a geographical place name such as "South Pole" or the name of a meteorological observing station.
A "platform" is a structure or vehicle that serves as a base for mounting sensors. Platforms include, but are not limited to, satellites, aeroplanes, ships, buoys, instruments, ground stations, and masts.

Are there contexts where these are used interchangeably? Or conversely, where the distinction between them is quite distinct?

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