https://cdn.earthdata.nasa.gov/conduit/upload/5182/KeywordsCommunityGuide_Baseline_v1_SIGNED_FINAL.pdf 23.6 2026-03-19T10:41:57.720Z https://gcmd.earthdata.nasa.gov/KeywordViewer/scheme/projects/f9fd6f89-9a67-4ece-9514-3803e7787520 ARGO ARGO is a broad-scale global array of temperature/salinity profilingfloats, known as Argo, is planned as a major component of the oceanobserving system. Deployment began in 2000. Conceptually, Argo buildson the existing upper-ocean thermal networks, extending their spatialand temporal coverage, depth range and accuracy, and enhancing themthrough addition of salinity and velocity measurements. The name Argois chosen to emphasize the strong complementary relationship of theglobal float array with the Jason altimeter mission. For the firsttime, the physical state of the upper ocean will be systematicallymeasured and assimilated in near real-time.Objectives of Argo fall into several categories. Argo will provide aquantitative description of the evolving state of the upper ocean andthe patterns of ocean climate variability, including heat andfreshwater storage and transport. The data will enhance the value ofthe Jason altimeter through measurement of subsurface verticalstructure (T(z), S(z)) and reference velocity, with sufficientcoverage and resolution for interpretation of altimetric sea surfaceheight variability. Argo data will be used for initialization ofocean and coupled forecast models, data assimilation and dynamicalmodel testing. A primary focus of Argo is seasonal to decadal climatevariability and predictability, but a wide range of applications forhigh-quality global ocean analyses is anticipated.The initial design of the Argo network is based on experience from thepresent observing system, on newly gained knowledge of variabilityfrom the TOPEX/Poseidon altimeter, and on estimated requirements forclimate and high-resolution ocean models. Argo will provide 100,000T/S profiles and reference velocity measurements per year from about3000 floats distributed over the global oceans at 3-degree spacing.Floats will cycle to 2000 m depth every 10 days, with a 4-5 yearlifetime for individual instruments. All Argo data will be publiclyavailable in near real-time via the GTS, and in scientificallyquality-controlled form with a few months delay. Global coverageshould be achieved during the Global Ocean Data AssimilationExperiment, which together with CLIVAR and GCOS/GOOS, provide themajor scientific and operational impetus for Argo. The designemphasizes the need to integrate Argo within the overall framework ofthe global ocean observing system.International planning for Argo, including sampling and technicalissues, is coordinated by the Argo Science Team. Nations presentlyhaving Argo plans that include float procurement or production includeAustralia, Canada, France, Japan, U.K., and U.S.A., plus a EuropeanUnion proposal. Combined deployments from these nations are expectedto exceed 700 floats per year by 2002. Broad participation in Argo bymany nations is anticipated and encouraged either through floatprocurement, logistical support for float deployment, or throughanalysis and assimilation of Argo data.For more information, link to 'http://www.argo.ucsd.edu/'