Global Ocean Observing System

Observing the Ocean.
Informing the Future.

The ocean shapes our world every day — influencing weather, climate, ecosystems, economies, and the future of our planet. By observing it together on a global scale, we build the knowledge needed to respond to today's challenges and prepare for future changes.

The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) provides leadership and coordination for a global system of sustained ocean observations. Through a globally integrated infrastructure of ocean observing networks, national and regional observing initiatives, and with the guidance of its expert panels, GOOS ensures the delivery of essential ocean information that supports ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide.

Report 2026

Global Ocean Observing
Status Report 2026

Transforming our ocean observing system assessment and design process. We bring together observing networks, modeling centers, and key stakeholders to co-design a fit-for-purpose global ocean observation pipeline.

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Explore the system

More than 9,000 platforms are collecting vital ocean observations every day

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Countries

Networks

9,389

Platforms

Impact

From Ocean Data to Real-World Impact

Ocean data is already powering weather and extreme event forecasting, climate adaptation, coastal and maritime risk responses, biodiversity stewardship, and sustainable ocean economies.

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Climate

Coastal communities using sea level data for infrastructure planning

Long-term tide gauge and satellite altimetry data guiding coastal resilience investments

Southern Ocean

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Observations

Autonomous platforms keeping watch through the fiercest storms

Moored and drifting instruments deliver data where ships cannot stay

North Atlantic

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Science

From samples to services: ocean data in the laboratory

Biogeochemical observations feeding models, forecasts and assessments

Global

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Climate

Sea level knowledge guiding tomorrow's coastal infrastructure

Long records turned into planning tools for exposed communities

Pacific Islands

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Forecasting

Ocean observations behind every weather and marine forecast

Real-time data streams feeding prediction centres worldwide

Southern Ocean

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Initiatives

We are driving the future of ocean observing through global partnerships, innovation, and collaborative initiatives

The Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS) drives and supports major international collaborative initiatives. These projects aim to expand ocean observing capacity, develop predictive systems, and engage global communities to address critical climate and maritime challenges.