Innovations and Application of Operational Ocean Data Products for Security of Marine Environment

Abstract

The rapid development of operational oceanography in recent years has led to improved access to real-time data and products generated from in situ and satellite observations as well as ocean modelling. Operational oceanography is like weather monitoring and forecasting for the ocean. It can provide estimates of essential ocean variables, for example, sea level, temperature and currents. Ocean observations are required in real time and near real time (within a few days or minutes of collection) and sourced from various national and international programs. A number of large open data sets and metadata from observations (in situ and remote sensing) and from model outputs exist which have application in real-time problem solutions in coastal environments. However, these resources have not been used optimally due to limited capacities, and lack of information on their availability and applicability. In this study attempt has been made to discuss available information to improve safety of life at sea, help create wealth and assist in the security and protection of the marine environment through good measuring networks, and systems for making data available swiftly. Timely prediction of storms and other unfavourable weather can be done by having knowledge of meteorological conditions, and how they are developing above the oceans. Outputs can be used to generate data products, applications and services through national authorities, as well as in some cases through other organizations such as metocean service providers and environmental consultants and for these measurements to be of use, good data management, quality control and fast data availability are essential.