Marine Technology Reporter Blogs - image:ooi washington

Ocean observation systems are platforms designed to study ocean processes in real time. They return continuous data to researchers back on shore. Similar to other undersea tools they can be equipped with various tools and systems including computer command and storage capability, power supplies, sensors, Internet connections and communication systems. There are currently a number of ocean observatory platforms carrying out varied studies around the world. The Santa Cruz Ocean Observatory Platform also known as SCOOP out of UC Santa Cruz was designed to detect and investigate harmful algal blooms (HABs) and red tides. It also serves as a platform where instrumentation can be tested.