A research coordination network for ocean observations

A five-year National Science Foundation-funded Research Coordination Network (RCN), the “OceanObs” RCN is currently in its third year. The RCN continues to focus on key issues in both ocean observations and community outreach. A working group has addressed recommendations for improvements in the joint use of in situ and remote sensing to essential information; considering, as a use case, observation of coastal waters. The RCN supported a task team to identify core variables for ocean biology and a working group is examining the maturity of sensors for ocean biology observations. In addition, a monthly webinar, “Blue Marvel - Ocean Mysteries” focuses on Outreach. The objective of these diverse activities is to examine alternatives and recommendations to better support the long-term sustainability of ocean observations.