Challenges to full implementation of the system

Attaining and sustaining global coverage

The ocean observing system for climate is a coordinated system of individual national and regional efforts. Attaining and sustaining global coverage is the most significant challenge for the system. This challenge will only be met through national commitments to the global implementation and maintenance effort and with international coordination provided by JCOMM and other relevant bodies.

Research programmes are currently the primary source of funding for many elements of the present oceanic climate observing system and for developing new methods and technologies. Continued strong support is needed to develop and bring new technology into pilot project use and then into sustained use in the oceanic climate observing system.

The participation and collaboration of many groups beyond and in addition to the oceanic climate observing community is needed to effect the efficient implementation and maintenance of the agreed initial ocean observing system for climate. Effective partnership between operational and research programmes, such as the Partnership for Observations of the Global Oceans (POGO), science working teams such as Jason and SMOS, and specialized Space Agencies, are required.

Scientific and technical challenges

Ocean climate product development will advance rapidly if adequately supported. Collaboration with ongoing global research programmes must be fostered.

Ongoing research and technical development are necessary to take advantage of and further develop improved sensors and platforms for sustained ocean observations. The following list is illustrative of areas requiring research and technology development.

• Satellite observations with higher resolution and accuracy and more spectral bands from geostationary satellites; improved capability for ocean colour observations in coastal and turbid waters; improved interpretation of sea-ice data from satellites; satellite measurement of salinity.
• Observing system evaluation and design, including improvements in air-sea flux parameterizations.
• Improvements in ocean platforms, including increased capabilities for Argo floats; improved glider technology and mooring technology.
• New development in ocean sensors and systems, including improved bio-fouling protection, autonomous water sampling systems, optical and acoustic systems, airborne variable sensors, and two-way, low-cost, low-power telecommunications.
• New and improved capability to measure biogeochemical variables, nutrients, and dissolved oxygen and carbon dioxide, as well as to identify organisms.
• Improved instruments, including near-surface current meters, in-water radiometers, sensors for air-sea interface variables and turbulent fluxes, and VOS sensor systems.

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