As part of the decadal conference series, OceanObs’19 will galvanize the ocean observing community ranging from scientists to end users. OceanObs’19 seeks to improve response to scientific and societal needs of a fit-for-purpose integrated ocean observing system, for better understanding the environment of the Earth, monitoring climate, and informing adaptation strategies as well as the sustainable use of ocean resources. The OceanObs’19 conference will celebrate tremendous progress across regional, national, and global ocean observation networks and strengthen user connections to enhance these systems over the coming decade. Strategic working sessions and network functions during the conference will enable oceanographic researchers, technology operators, data experts, early career scientists, policy-makers, and end-users to chart the future of ocean observing. Societal benefit themes will be examined by their relationship to Ocean Observing and how information products can be best supported through the observing system themes. OceanObs ’19 will be focusing on seven vital themes: Discovery, Ecosystem Health & Biodiversity, Climate Variability & Change, Water Food & Energy Security, Pollution & Human Health, Hazards & Maritime Safety, and Blue Economy. The three overarching themes are Data & Information Systems, Ocean System Governance, and Observing Technologies & Networks.
