Development of the elements of GOOS

Facilitating Access to Global Observing Systems Data and Information

Development of the Elements of GOOS

The observing requirements for GOOS are specified by scientific panels with the appropriate expertise. These panels include, the Coastal Oceans Observing Panel (COOP) and the Ocean Observing Panel for Climate (OOPC). Requirements of the Climate Module were initially specified by the Ocean Observing System Development Panel (OOSDP) in 1995. The Ocean Observing Panel for Climate (OOPC) now specifies the ocean observing requirements for GOOS and GCOS.

Ocean Climate Observing Requirements for GOOS and GCOS

The Climate Module of GOOS has been developed jointly with GCOS to satisfy the needs for both ocean sub-surface climate and marine surface and atmospheric data. Specific data collection programs are described under the "Operational Observing System" link.

Coastal Module Observing Requirements

The COOP is intended to monitor, assess, and predict effects of natural variations and human activities on the coastal ocean. Issues of interest include ecosystem and human health, living marine resources, natural hazards, and safe and efficient marine operations. The emphasis will be on coastal ecosystems including open waters of the continental shelf. However boundaries will be determined by problems relevant to the above issues.

Development of the Requirements

GOSIC is supported and hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Climatic Data Center (NCDC), and the U.S. GCOS Program on behalf of the global observing community.