Our ability to monitor the oceans, and especially to capture changes therein, is limited in general. The Arctic Ocean presents its own limitations, in the extreme conditions and (partial) ice cover. Nevertheless, observations from the oceans, especially from the Arctic Ocean, are essential for understanding climate and for reducing uncertainties in projections for the future. iAOOS (integrated Arctic Ocean Observing System) is an attempt, led by the Arctic Ocean Sciences Board (AOSB), involving a dozen countries, including the UK, USA, Russia and China, to coordinate and optimize ongoing observations in the Arctic as a lead in to a future sustainable observing system. iAOOS during IPY consists of roughly 30 projects (see http://www.aosb.org/pdf/iAOOS_and_iAOOS_partners.pdf)

For more information, please go to the Arctic Oceans Science Board website.

An update for iAOOS-Norway is also available.