Ocean

By absorbing and redistributing heat and carbon dioxide, the ocean plays a decisive role in the climate on Earth. More than 70 percent of the Earth is covered by ocean, and the Norwegian sea areas are six times larger than our land area. The ocean gives us food and energy, it is our most important transport vein.

Marine ecosystemsOur near ocean areas are among the most productive in the world, and safe and reliable knowledge is important to ensure a future clean, rich, resilient, and sustainable ocean.

Wind and wavesOur nearby ocean areas are known for powerful storms and extreme weather conditions. Knowledge of wind and wave conditions is therefore very important for safety at sea.

Ocean currents and water temperaturesThe sea is home to an incredible number of animal species, it provides us with food and energy, serves as a transport route and has a major impact on the climate of the globe. Two important factors that influence what happens in the ocean are ocean currents and temperature.

Air-sea interactionsEvery second, large amounts of heat, moisture, gases, and energy pass the interface between the ocean and the atmosphere. This creates waves and ocean currents, turbulence and wind systems, low pressure and high pressure. Exchange between air and sea are also important factors that affect the climate on earth.

Sounds in the oceanThere are many sources of sound in the ocean, both natural and man-made. Marine mammals, such as the whale, communicate with unique signals underwater. Earthquakes under the seafloor and noise from ship engines form sound waves, which propagate in the sea. Acoustic receivers work like underwater hydrophones and are one of the tools we use for recording and collecting data.