SOOS Capability Working Groups

Capability Working Groups (CWGs) develop important capabilities for SOOS, such as:

  • Developing and implementing technologies

  • Improving observational design (e.g., identifying key variables), efficiency and coverage

  • Developing associated methods for managing and disseminating information

CWGs usually address issues requiring a longer term effort (e.g. months to years). To solve a particular problem or produce a specific product or event within a shorter time frame SOOS Task Teams can be formed.


Propose a new Capability Working Group

To propose a new working group, please download the proposal template here. Once complete, please email your proposal to the SOOS Executive Officer (info[at]soos.aq). The proposal will be considered by the SOOS Executive Committee before approval by the Scientific Steering Committee.

Current SOOS Capability Working Groups

Name Objective
Censusing Animal Populations from Space (CAPS) Developing a cost-effective, remote sensing-based method for monitoring animal populations from space.
Observing System Design (OSD) Facilitating the design of a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary observing system for the Southern Ocean.
Southern Ocean Fluxes (SOFLUX) Enhancing Air-Sea Flux Observations in the Southern Ocean.

Completed SOOS Capability Working Groups

Year Name Objective
2014-2021 Observing and Understanding the Ocean below Antarctic Sea Ice and Ice Shelves (OASIIS) Developing a detailed implementation plan for an under-ice observing system.
2017-2021 Blue & Fin Whale Acoustic Trends (AT) Acoustic trends in abundance, distribution and seasonal presence of Antarctic Blue and Fin Whales in the Southern Ocean.
Last modified: 10/June/2022/JB