Operational Oceanography in the 21st Century

Over the past decade the significant advances in real-time ocean observing systems, ocean modelling, ocean data assimilation and super-computing has seen the development and implementation of operational ocean forecasts of the global ocean. At the conclusion of the Global Ocean Data Assimilation Experiment (GODAE) in 2008 ocean forecasting services were being supported by 12 international centres.

The book is about ocean forecasting - a maturing field which remains an active area of research, and includes the discussion on such topics as ocean predictability, observing system design, high resolution ocean modelling and ocean data assimilation. It presents the introduction to ocean forecasts which allow new opportunities in areas of coupled bio-geochemical forecasting and coupled atmosphere-wave-ocean forecasting. The book describes the research and development to improve forecast systems, determining how best to service the marine user community with forecast information as well as demonstrating impact to their applications. It also discusses operational centres which develop online graphical and data products for their user communities and obtain real-time feedback on the quality of this information.

The contents of this book are aimed at early career scientists and professionals with an interest in operational oceanography and related ocean science. There are excellent opportunities for exciting research through operational forecasting careers in order to address current and future challenges in this field and to service a growing user community.