OceanObs’29: Shaping the Next Decade of Global Ocean Observing

A decadal forum bringing together the global ocean community to define priorities, strengthen coordination, and ensure ocean observing remains scientifically robust, societally relevant, and fit for the future.

OceanObs’29 is the next in a series of international decadal conferences that guide the evolution of sustained, integrated ocean observing systems. Building on the legacy of OceanObs’99, ’09, and ’19, OceanObs’29 will focus on aligning scientific ambition, technological innovation, and user needs across the global ocean observing enterprise.

What Is OceanObs’29?

Ocean observations underpin research, operational services, and decision-making related to weather, climate, marine resources, hazards, and environmental change. OceanObs’29 provides a structured forum to assess progress, identify gaps, and chart a coordinated path forward.

Why OceanObs’29 Matters Now

Ocean observing faces increasing demands alongside growing constraints. At the same time, expectations for actionable, interoperable, and sustained data continue to rise.

OceanObs’29 will:

  • Clarify priorities for the next decade of ocean observing.

  • Strengthen alignment across national, regional, and global efforts.

  • Connect observing capabilities to scientific, operational, and societal needs.

  • Inform future investments, partnerships, and innovation pathways.

How to Engage

OceanObs’29 is designed as a community-driven process.

Opportunities to engage will include:

  • Community input and listening sessions.

  • Targeted discussions on emerging challenges and opportunities.

  • Contributions to synthesis activities leading up to the conference.

Early career professionals, researchers, technologists, operational agencies, data providers, and end users are all encouraged to participate.

OSM26 Town Hall

OceanObs’29 will host a community town hall at the Ocean Sciences Meeting to share planning updates and gather input from across the ocean observing community.

Date: Friday, 27 February 2026

Time: 12:45–13:45

Location: Forth (SEC), Ocean Sciences Meeting, Glasgow, Scotland

The town hall will provide an open forum to: 1.) Share the emerging vision and planning approach for OceanObs’29, 2.) Hear community perspectives on priorities and challenges for ocean observing, and 3.) Identify opportunities for coordination, innovation, and collective impact. Input gathered during the town hall will help inform conference themes, engagement activities, and longer-term synthesis leading up to OceanObs’29.

Learn more

FAQs

  • OceanObs’29 will be held in Qingdao, China, in 2029. The exact dates will be confirmed once the Local Organizing Committee is established, which is expected in 2027.

  • Please contact info@oceanobs29.net for more information. Your questions will be routed to the OceanObs’29 coordination team (Fei Chai, Samuel Wang, and Nick Rome).