The Observing System
GOOS integrates multiple observing networks into a coherent global system. Each network focuses on specific aspects of ocean observation, from surface conditions to deep-sea processes.
🚢 Ship-Based Observations
Research vessels and ships of opportunity collect data on ocean temperature, salinity, currents, and chemical properties along shipping routes worldwide.
🛰️ Satellite Remote Sensing
Satellites provide global coverage of sea surface temperature, ocean color, sea level, and other properties with unprecedented spatial coverage.
🔵 Argo Floats
Over 4,000 autonomous profiling floats measure temperature and salinity from the surface to 2,000 meters depth across all ocean basins.
📍 Moored Buoys
Fixed platforms provide continuous high-frequency measurements at strategic locations, essential for weather forecasting and tsunami detection.
🤖 Ocean Gliders
Autonomous underwater vehicles collect detailed profiles along programmed paths, reaching areas difficult for other platforms.
🏝️ Coastal Stations
Shore-based and nearshore instruments monitor coastal waters, essential for local communities and ecosystem management.
Essential Ocean Variables
GOOS has defined a set of Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs) that are critical for understanding the ocean system. These are organized into three themes:
Physics
Sea surface temperature, subsurface temperature, sea surface salinity, subsurface salinity, surface currents, subsurface currents, sea surface height, sea state, sea ice, ocean surface stress, heat flux.
Biogeochemistry
Oxygen, nutrients, inorganic carbon, transient tracers, particulate matter, dissolved organic carbon, ocean color.
Biology & Ecosystems
Phytoplankton, zooplankton, fish, marine turtles, birds, mammals, hard coral, seagrass, mangrove, macroalgae, microbes, benthic invertebrates.
Data Flow
- Collection – Instruments and platforms gather observations in real-time and delayed mode
- Transmission – Data is transmitted via satellite, radio, or cable to data centers
- Quality Control – Automated and expert checks ensure data quality
- Distribution – Open data policies ensure free access for all users
- Application – Data feeds into forecasts, climate models, and decision-making tools
Explore Coastal GOOS
Discover how GOOS supports coastal communities and regional ocean observing systems.
Coastal GOOS →