Exploring the ocean for national benefit

NOAA Ocean Exploration is the only federal program dedicated to exploring the unknown ocean, unlocking its potential through scientific discovery, technological advancements, partnerships, data delivery, and education.

Learn about Ocean Exploration

Dive into ocean exploration by exploring materials such as stories, ocean facts, and images and videos, organized by topic for learners of all ages and levels.

Our Expeditions by the Numbers

NOAA Ocean Exploration coordinates, funds, and conducts expeditions around the globe that feed the essential research and scientific inquiry necessary to understand the features and phenomena of the ocean to support informed resource management decisions.

Featured Statistics
443,304 Square Kilometers of Seafloor Mapped
+180 Days at Sea on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer
5.5 Million Website Views
+400 Educators Trained

Status: NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer

NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer is in port following the successful completion of the Beyond the Blue: Papahānaumokuākea ROV and Mapping expedition. Stay tuned to learn what’s next!

Your Daily Ocean

Bubble plumes revealed during overnight mapping paved the way for a remotely operated vehicle dive offshore Chatham Strait. Catham Seep was first identified in 2016, but Seascape Alaska 5 marked the first time it was visually surveyed.