Science & Exploration
Projects, tools, and technologies to unlock our ocean’s full potential
With priority placed on exploration of deep waters and the waters of the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone, NOAA Ocean Exploration executes its mission to explore the ocean for national benefit by leading and supporting expeditions and projects and using the latest tools and technology to explore unknown or poorly known areas of our ocean, making discoveries of scientific and economic value.
Expeditions & Projects
NOAA Ocean Exploration leads and supports expeditions and projects to explore previously unknown areas of the ocean, providing partnership coordination, funding, staff, tools, and expertise needed to deliver rigorous, systematic observations and documentation of biological, chemical, physical, geological, and archaeological aspects of the ocean. Follow expeditions and projects supported by our office, including those on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer, while they are underway or trace the activities and discoveries of past work through stories, images, videos, and more.
Why We Explore
Exploration is key to increasing our understanding of the ocean, so we can more effectively manage, regulate, and use ocean resources that are vital to our national security, economy, and our livelihoods.
Why Ocean Exploration Matters
Given how much of our ocean remains unexplored, can we truly say that we “know” our own ocean? And if we don’t, how do we manage it and the resources it holds? Take a deep dive with us as we look at several of the reasons why exploring our ocean is so important.
History of Ocean Exploration at NOAA
Systematic ocean exploration in the United States began in 1807 when Thomas Jefferson authorized the Survey of the Coast, NOAA’s earliest predecessor. Since then, NOAA and its ancestors have played a critical role in the evolution of ocean exploration. These pages offer a look at NOAA’s 200-year history of ocean exploration through a series of chronological essays and historical quotations.
How We Explore
NOAA Ocean Exploration executes its mission to explore the ocean for national benefit by leading expeditions on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer and other research vessels; establishing public, private, and academic partnerships; and providing funding and other support for ocean exploration expeditions and technology development.
Data & Products
NOAA Ocean Exploration ensures public access to the diverse scientific data and information collected during ocean expeditions that we support, including those on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer. Data collections vary by expedition. However, most expedition data collections include oceanographic and geophysical data, underwater video and imagery, supporting documentation, secondary products, and published works.
Learn more about our mission, people, impact, and other resources.