Exploration of the Seas

Seventy percent of our blue planet is covered by oceans. Although progress has been made in understanding the role of oceans in climate change, locating energy reserves, revealing new life forms, and describing the flow of carbon through these systems, it may be time to catapult our understanding to new levels by undertaking an interdisciplinary, international, global ocean exploration program. The interim report outlines the committee's vision for a future international global ocean exploration program; this vision will be fully described, together with detailed recommendations for technological needs and capabilities, funding levels, and management structures to ensure a productive and successful ocean exploration program.Table of ContentsFront MatterExecutive SummaryIntroductionComparison of Ocean Exploration and Ocean ResearchKey Features of an Ocean Exploration ProgramBenefits to the United States from Initiating an International Ocean Exploration ProgramPriority Areas for Ocean ExplorationProposed Organization of an Ocean Exploration ProgramOcean Exploration as a Tool for Public EducationConclusionReferencesAppendix A: Committee and Staff BiographiesAppendix B: Congressional RequestAppendix C: Committee Timeline and First Meeting's AgendaAppendix D: International Global Ocean Exploration Workshop: Agenda and Participants