Progress in a wide range of ocean research and applications depends upon the prompt and dependable availability of ocean information products. The field of physical oceanography has matured to a point where it is now conceivable to combine numerical models and observations via data assimilation in order to provide ocean prediction products on various spatial and time scales. As a result, many nations have begun large-scale efforts to provide routine products to the oceanographic community. The Global Ocean Data Assimilation Experiment (GODAE) provides a framework for these efforts, i.e., a global system of observations, communications, modeling, and assimilation that will deliver regular, comprehensive information on the state of the oceans, in a way that will promote and engender wide utility and availability of this resource for maximum benefit to the community. The societal benefit will be an increased knowledge of the marine environment and ocean climate, predictive skills for societal, industrial, and commercial benefit and tactical and strategic advantage, as well as the provision of a comprehensive and integrated approach to the oceans.
One objective of the school is to form/motivate the young scientists and professionals that will be the principal movers and users of operational oceanographic outputs in the next 10 years. We consider it timely, given the international context, to bring together leading scientists to summarize our present knowledge in ocean modeling, ocean observing systems, and data assimilation to present an integrated view of oceanography. In addition to formal lectures, shorter talks by experts in the field will expose the participants to a wide range of applications. Attendees will also have the opportunity to present their work via poster sessions. The lecture notes will be reviewed by the attendees and will be published as a proceedings volume.
A list of the principal topics includes: Ocean modeling, ocean satellite and in-situ data, data assimilation, validation, integration, systems, and products. A number of presentations will be made concerning uses of operational oceanography. Approximately 6 hours of lectures and seminars are planned every day. Two student poster sessions and two debate sessions are also planned.
Support for the school will be provided by CNES, GODAE, and the MERSEA EU Integrated Project, among others.
For more information about the school (application process, point of contacts, logistics, ...), please go to the website http://www.mediatec-dif.com/isso/ishome.htm or http://www.cnes.fr/colloque/. For all questions related to program content and other scientific aspects you may contact Josiane Brasseur at meom@hmg.inpg.fr.