OceanGliders: A Component of the Integrated GOOS

TLDR

The OceanGliders program, launched in 2016, coordinates global glider activity and supports the Global Ocean Observation System by integrating national and regional observing systems into multi‑scale sampling strategies. OceanGliders aims to unite marine scientists and engineers worldwide to observe long‑term ocean processes relevant to society and to support GOOS by providing real‑time and delayed data, while expanding glider capabilities to address global challenges such as boundary‑current measurement, water transformation, and storm forecasting. OceanGliders facilitates glider operations by sharing best practices, monitoring global activity, and disseminating data through regional and global databases in real‑time and delayed modes, while supporting initiatives to expand glider capabilities for boundary‑current measurement, water transformation, and storm forecasting.

Abstract

The OceanGliders program started in 2016 to support active coordination and enhancement of global glider activity. OceanGliders contributes to the international efforts of the Global Ocean Observation System (GOOS) for Climate, Ocean Health, and Operational Services. It brings together marine scientists and engineers operating gliders around the world: (1) to observe the long-term physical, biogeochemical, and biological ocean processes and phenomena that are relevant for societal applications; and, (2) to contribute to the GOOS through real-time and delayed mode data dissemination. The OceanGliders program is distributed across national and regional observing systems and significantly contributes to integrated, multi-scale and multi-platform sampling strategies. OceanGliders shares best practices, requirements, and scientific knowledge needed for glider operations, data collection and analysis. It also monitors global glider activity and supports the dissemination of glider data through regional and global databases, in real-time and delayed modes, facilitating data access to the wider community. OceanGliders currently supports national, regional and global initiatives to maintain and expand the capabilities and application of gliders to meet key global challenges such as improved measurement of ocean boundary currents, water transformation and storm forecast.