The data utilized in this tool are provided by the International Argo Programme, a component of the Global Ocean Observing System (GOOS). The Argo Programme, with contributions from various national programs, offers open access to its data (http://www.argo.ucsd.edu, http://argo.jcommops.org).
Argo is a global network of almost 4,000 free-drifting profiling floats, deployed worldwide, monitoring the temperature and salinity of the ocean's upper 2,000 meters. This network allows for the first-ever continuous observation of key oceanographic parameters, with data rapidly relayed and made publicly accessible.Since the first float launches in 2000, Argo has significantly advanced ocean monitoring. The network's growth has been continuous, with the array expanding and evolving to provide comprehensive global coverage. While the network is extensive, efforts continue to address coverage gaps in certain ocean areas. The original design of the Argo array has evolved to overcome challenges in ice-prone and marginal sea zones, thanks to advancements in two-way communication and ice-detection technology. The enhanced Argo array now aims to maintain around 4,000 floats, including in previously under-covered regions.
Figure: Positions of floats that have delivered data within the last 30 days
Argo's scope is expanding beyond its core mission. Initiatives include increasing bottom ocean coverage, integrating bio-geochemical sensors, and enhancing spatial coverage in boundary currents and equatorial areas. These enhancements are in various stages of development and implementation.
Argo emphasizes dual data streams: real-time for immediate access and delayed mode for quality-controlled data. Approximately 90% of profiles are available within 24 hours through Global Data Assembly Centers (GDACs). Delayed Mode Quality Control (DMQC) is applied to further refine data accuracy, with 65% of eligible profiles undergoing this process.
Float reliability and longevity have progressively improved. Argo serves a diverse user community, including academic institutions, government labs, and climate analysis and forecasting centers. The ongoing need for Argo data ensures its indefinite operational status, with technological and methodological advancements anticipated.
The data of the tool is sourced through real-time API requests to the Euro-Argo Fleet Monitoring service. This service is part of the Euro-Argo ERIC, a European research infrastructure consortium dedicated to the operation and management of the Argo network in Europe. Euro-Argo's role is important in maintaining the European contribution to the global Argo program, ensuring the continuous collection and availability of high-quality data from the floats.
Graphical representations of temperature and salinity and data profiles for download are provided by Ifremer (French Research Institute for Exploitation of the Sea), a leading institution in ocean science and technology. Ifremer supports the Argo program, contributing significantly to the management, processing, and dissemination of Argo data. The images and data available from Ifremer offer users insights into the oceanographic conditions captured by the Argo floats.
Argo is a major contributor to the World Climate Research Programme's (WCRP) Climate Variability and Predictability (CLIVAR) project and the Global Ocean Data Assimilation Experiment (GODAE). The Argo array is part of the Global Climate Observing System/Global Ocean Observing System (GCOS /GOOS).
This tool provides access to the Argo data floats drifting, over the CCLME region during the last month.
• Argo Profiles 3D Map: When the user accesses this tool, the map region show the Argo Select panel. From this panel the user is able to access information from different Argo floats.
The map features a layer where users can view the current locations of Argo floats that have recently traversed the CCLME region. This data is retrieved through real-time, online API requests to the Euro-Argo Fleet Monitoring service (https://dataselection.euro-argo.eu/api/full-search-response) each time the tool is used. The API fetches the latest location data for floats within a predefined geographical area covering the CCLME region. Each float's position is marked by a point on the map.
When the user clicks on a point representing an Argo float, a popup appears, displaying the float's code. This float is then automatically selected in the dropdown menu on the panel. Users also have the option to manually select a float from the dropdown menu.
After selecting a float and clicking the "Get Info" button, graphs are displayed below the map, showing the temperature and salinity profiles for the chosen float. These graphs are created dynamically using images from the Ifremer FTP server, based on the specific code of the selected float.
The "Vertical Profiles" button leads users to a panel displaying detailed vertical profiles of the selected float, covering all its cycles. This information is obtained from the Euro-Argo Fleet Monitoring website (https://fleetmonitoring.euro-argo.eu).
The "Downloads" section allows users to download data for a specific Argo float from the Ifremer FTP server. The tool offers options to download data in NetCDF, JSON, or ASCII formats, enabling users to access comprehensive float data for advanced analysis, research, or other purposes.
