EuskOOS – Basque Operational Oceanography System

What it is?

EuskOOS is an infrastructure for the observation, forecasting, and monitoring of the marine environment in the Basque Country. It integrates coastal networks, real-time measurement systems, numerical modelling, and advanced technologies to collect, process, and disseminate oceanographic and meteorological data. Its objectives are to accurately describe the current state of the sea along the Basque coast, provide continuous forecasts of future conditions, and deliver ocean–meteorological products to users along the Basque coastline.

The online platform provides access to real-time data, historical time series, and derived products through interfaces tailored to different user profiles. It delivers key information on waves, wind, sea level, sea surface temperature, and marine currents, supporting scientific, technical, and management applications.

EuskOOS data are integrated into products linked to blue economy sectors and the sustainable management of resources. In addition, it is part of international observation networks and aligns with the principles of operational oceanography defined by UNESCO and European bodies, positioning the Basque Country at the forefront of oceanographic research.

The problem it solves

• The need for reliable, up-to-date information on sea conditions to support decision-making in coastal management, maritime safety, fisheries, marine energy, and conservation.
• The lack of high-resolution data and forecasts tailored to the Basque coastline.
• The need to coordinate and make oceanographic data accessible to the public and professional stakeholders in a user-friendly way.

How does it work?

EuskOOS consists of:

• Observation networks: ocean–meteorological stations (Pasaia and the Port of Bilbao), high-frequency radars (Higer and Matxitxako, covering 10,000 km²), a deep-water buoy (10 nautical miles off Higer), tide gauges (Pasaia and Bermeo), coastal videometry systems, and autonomous gliders.
• Forecasting systems: the WAM wave model and the EUSCOMvu2 coastal system, used to estimate the evolution of physical variables in the southeastern Bay of Biscay.

Key benefits

• High-quality, validated data tailored to the management needs of the Basque coast.
• Integration of real-time observations with predictive modelling.
• Support for risk management, coastal planning, and the sustainable development of maritime activities.
• Contribution to scientific research and international observation networks.

Success stories

• Use of high-frequency radars to improve maritime safety and integrated coastal management.
• Deployment of gliders as a pioneering technology for marine observation.
• Development of online tools to facilitate public access to oceanographic data from the Basque Country.

Scientific publications

The available information does not mention specific scientific publications focused exclusively on EuskOOS, although its development and operation are supported by research projects and international cooperation initiatives.