IMOS Data Delivery: increasing our knowledge of Australia’s oceans and coasts

This is the third in a series of IMOS Impact Case Studies, available for download from the IMOS website.

The IMOS Impact Case Studies showcase the benefits derived from investment in national research infrastructure.

The series will demonstrate how IMOS observations are used by marine and climate scientists, forecasters, and marine industries whose research and product development deliver benefit to Australian and global communities.

This case study focuses on IMOS data delivery. Australia’s Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) is committed to delivering impact for Australia by collecting and delivering key and multidisciplinary data streams. These data benefit Australia across five broad societal themes: marine sovereignty, safety and security; energy security, food security, biodiversity conservation and management, and coastal populations.

IMOS understands that a robust, open, and accessible data capability is critical to Australia’s future prosperity. Innovation in the delivery and understanding of sometimes complex observational data can assist with and amplify the understanding of Australia’s much-loved ocean estate.

All IMOS observations are turned into data served through the Australian Ocean Data Network (AODN). The AODN capability manages, processes, and delivers the data via the AODN Portal, where it can be discovered, accessed, used and reused.

IMOS recognises that whilst researchers prefer the delivery of specific data streams, traditional data formats are often less applicable and accessible for individuals in industry and management. IMOS has identified the need to integrate data streams to create syntheses and value-added products, such as IMOS OceanCurrent and the State and Trends of Australia’s Ocean Report.

Through greater accessibility and innovative delivery of data, IMOS is seeing an increase in our user base. Data are used by marine and climate scientists, forecasters, marine industries, and the broader public for many reasons. In turn, these many uses deliver benefit to Australian and global communities.

We encourage you to download and share the pdf.