Shaping an Ocean of Possibilities (SOOP) for Global Ocean Observation and Innovation

The ocean is essential for regulating the Earth’s climate, supporting biodiversity, and providing resources that sustain human livelihoods. However, vast areas of the ocean remain under-observed due to limitations in traditional oceanographic research infrastructure. The Helmholtz Innovation Platform SOOP (Shaping an Ocean of Possibilities) addresses this gap by creating a collaborative framework that bridges the science-industry divide, enhancing global ocean observation capabilities. SOOP is a joint initiative by Helmholtz centers, including GEOMAR, AWI, and Hereon, which aims to develop and deploy innovative, cost-effective, and standardized ocean monitoring systems.

SOOP leverages Ships of Opportunity to expand ocean data collection, utilizing vessels already in operation, such as commercial ships, ferries, and fishing boats. This approach enables real-time, high-resolution monitoring of key ocean parameters like temperature, salinity, oxygen levels, and pH. By integrating advanced sensor technology, SOOP ensures that data collected is reliable, accessible, and useful for a wide range of stakeholders, from scientific researchers to industry leaders and policymakers.

To address one of the biggest challenges in ocean technology development—the variety of sensor components and the difficulty of system integration—SOOP is developing the Open Source Building Kit (OSBK). Over recent decades, the majority of time, energy, and resources in ocean observation missions have been consumed by integrating sensor interfaces into infrastructure, rather than by developing new technologies. OSBK aims to overcome this by simplifying interfaces across ocean observation systems, enabling faster, more efficient innovation. OSBK is designed as a modular, affordable, and adaptable toolkit that allows developers to easily build interoperable ocean monitoring systems, saving both time and costs while focusing on gathering high-quality data.

A core objective of SOOP is to actively support the New Blue Economy by utilizing non-scientific vessels as platforms for ocean observation. This innovative approach reduces operational costs, engages diverse maritime sectors in sustainable monitoring efforts, and transforms routine maritime activities into valuable scientific contributions. By collaborating with stakeholders in fisheries, tourism, and aquaculture, SOOP promotes sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and coastal economies.

The platform also fosters partnerships with regional and international initiatives to co-develop scalable measurement networks, supporting the creation of early warning systems and decision-support tools that enhance resilience to climate change. By empowering communities and industries to participate in ocean observation, SOOP drives innovation and sustainable development, ultimately contributing to global ocean stewardship.

This presentation will highlight SOOP’s comprehensive approach to advancing ocean science through technology, collaboration, and sustainability. We will showcase key projects, strategic partnerships, and future directions aimed at expanding SOOP’s impact in supporting the New Blue Economy and fostering sustainable ocean practices, including the transformative potential of OSBK to streamline ocean technology and promote broad participation in ocean observation.