Guidance for Researchers Preparing Proposals Using OOI Data

The NSF Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI) is providing the following guidance for researchers preparing proposals that incorporate OOI observations and data during Program Year IX (PYIX; October 2026–September 2027).

At this time, OOI anticipates that moorings currently deployed will continue to be serviced and maintained throughout PYIX (Oct 2026 – Sep 2027). A high-level overview of OOI operational status from PYVII (Oct 2024 – Sep 2025) through PYIX is provided in the graphic below. The graphic provides a starting point for understanding OOI status for the three most recent Program years. For details about specific platforms or instruments, please contact OOI.

Researchers are encouraged to continue developing proposals that leverage OOI observations and data. For questions about identifying OOI data or our computing services environment, please contact OOI. Researchers proposing to add an instrument, platform, or other infrastructure to the OOI facility should review the process for adding instruments or platforms and contact OOI to discuss technical feasibility.

The OOI Program Management Office will continue to share updates as additional information becomes available. To stay informed about OOI program news, infrastructure updates, new data resources, and community opportunities, we encourage you to subscribe to the OOI Oceanic Insights monthly newsletter.

High-level operational status is provided as color bars for four categories:

• Fully Operational: All array elements listed in the OOI 2.5 baseline are operational
• Operational: Most array elements listed in the OOI 2.5 baseline are operational
• Partially Operational: Several array elements are not operational or have been deployed for significantly longer than usual
• Suspended: Array element that have been removed and are no longer providing measurements