GEORGE at Ocean Sciences Meeting 2026

GEORGE will be present at the Ocean Sciences Meeting in Glasgow, Scotland 22-27 February 2026. Below is a summary of GEORGE-related presentations.

ED14A-0007: Demonstrating the optimisation of cosmopolitan sampling using Copernicus forecasts, virtual surveys, and a simplified genetic algorithm approach

Time and Date
Mon, Feb 23
4:00pm – 6:00pm (GMT)

Format
Poster
(Board 0007, Hall 4 (Poster Hall))
ED14A-0007

Presenting author(s)
John Allen, MyOcean Resources Ltd

Author(s)
John Allen, MyOcean Resources Ltd
Calum Fitzgerald, MyOcean Resources Ltd

Main author
John Allen

Abstract
Optimal observational capability within available, often minimal, resources and time can be tested virtually in forecast models. FleetBot uses objective simplified genetic algorithms to derive and advise on optimal and adaptive sampling programmes for multiple observing platforms and research groups. The FleetBot process operates in predictive environmental model simulations, using an open source programming language (in this case R), optimising sampling according to cost functions respectful to capability, the ‘job’ to be achieved, and real world constraints. In the first GEORGE (EU2020 project) experimental demonstration, focussing on a deep sea region of the north-east Atlantic between May and July 2025, FleetBot provided advice and informed research programmes of their optimal potential and how to attain it, through running virtual sampling through ocean forecasts.

OB44K-0562: Combined SOOP and Profiling Float pCO2 Observations to Track Seasonal Dynamics in the Baltic Sea

Time and Date
Thu, Feb 26
04:00 – 06:00 pm (GMT)

Format
Poster
Board 0562‚ Hall 4 (Poster Hall)
OB44K-0562

Authors
Henry C Bittig1, Birgit A Klein2, Tobias Steinhoff3, Gregor J Rehder1 and Oliver Zielinski1, (1)Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, Rostock, Germany, (2)BSH Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency, Hamburg, Germany, (3)GEOMAR, Kiel, Germany

Main author
Henry C Bittig

Abstract
To properly observe and document changes in marine CO2 or other biogeochemical (BGC) parameters due to natural and anthropogenic processes, a combined approach of different observing systems is needed. While this is true for any ocean area, our work focuses on the Baltic Sea. Here, we combine (1) surface pCO2 and oxygen measurements by a ship of opportunity (SOOP) with (2) OneArgo profiling float pCO2 and BGC measurements of the water column. To seamlessly connect with surface ocean ΔpCO2 data from the Integrated Carbon Observation System (ICOS)-labelled SOOP line DE-SOOP Finnmaid, our profiling float carries a commercial pCO2 sensor alongside its typical suite of physical (T, S) and BGC sensors (O2, Chl a/bbp, radiometry) so that no additional carbonate system calculations are needed with respect to pCO2. Combined, they provide highly complementary information (a) to quantify seasonal CO2 uptake and release, (b) to observe the seasonal cycling and fate of CO2 below the surface, and (c) to determine physical and biogeochemical processes driving their dynamics. By cross-validating data across the different platforms, we ensure that data are interoperable and deliver a three-dimensional picture about carbon dynamics in the upper ocean. Our Baltic Sea example can be seen as a regional pilot for other regions or on a global scale of how research infrastructures integrate and benefit each other (i.e., ICOS and Euro-Argo). With sufficient funding provided to build up a global OneArgo array, autonomous floats not only link with SOOP surface CO2 observations, organized in the SOCONET (Surface Ocean CO2 Reference Observing Network) programme, e.g., as a joint pillar to the Global Greenhouse Gas Watch (G3W) ocean observations. As well, floats provide truly seasonal and interannual resolution to water column observations, thus connecting with research vessel-based operations such as organized in the GO-SHIP programme. To further expand OneArgo’s bridging role in the Baltic Sea, future deployments will more frequently involve sensors for pCO2, nitrate, bisulfide, and hyperspectral radiometry, e.g., to link up with satellite remote sensing products.


OT44A-1096: Lab-on-chip sensors for autonomous characterisation of the marine CO2 system and their potential for mCDR MRV applications.

Time and Date
Thu, Feb 26
4:00pm – 6:00pm (GMT)

Format
Poster
Board 1096, Hall 4 (Poster Hall)
OT44A-1096

Authors
Socratis Loucaides1, Patsy Beckerleg-Radouan1, Emily Hammermeister1,2, Stathys Papadimitriou1, Allison Schaap1, Martin Arundel3, Pablo Trucco-Pignata3, Anthony Lucio1 and Wahida Bhuiyan1, (1)National Oceanography Centre, Southampton, United Kingdom, (2)University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom, (3)National Oceanography Centre, Ocean Technology and Engineering, Southampton, United Kingdom

Main author
Socratis Loucaides

Abstract
Understanding the ocean carbon cycle and forecasting its role in future climate requires carbonate chemistry observations at a wide range of temporal and spatial scales. To address this need, autonomous observations utilizing robotic platforms and sensors are necessary to fill gaps in measurements collected from ships. The capability of autonomous platforms in providing wide coverage and collecting data from remote regions of the world ocean is now well proven. A large capability gap exists, however, in fit-for-purpose autonomous sensors for biogeochemistry and especially for carbonate chemistry observations. A small number of sensors are commercially available and a handful more are currently under development around the globe. Different sensing technologies and measurement approaches exist, each with their unique capabilities and limitations. Here we focus on the application of Lab-On-Chip (LOC) technology for autonomous measurements of seawater carbonate chemistry. LOC technology enables miniaturization and automation of high-performance reagent-based analytical techniques offering high-quality autonomous measurements in situ. LOC sensors for pH+ measurements are now commercially available while sensors for TA and DIC have been in development for several years. These sensors have been deployed integrated on several autonomous platforms including gliders, large AUVs, seabed frames and moorings. In this presentation we evaluate their performance during different applications highlighting their capabilities and limitations. We will present current development roadmaps and discuss their potential for mCDR MRV applications.

See the full programme on the conference homepage.