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We make sense of the changing seas, on which future human prosperity and wellbeing depend

Vision, Mission, Goals and Values

Science and Research

Our planet is constantly changing and climate change poses a big threat to society.

With years of experience, innovative technology and some of the world’s leading scientists, we take on the challenge of understanding the complexity of our oceans, the Earth system and biosphere.

Technology

The NOC is a pioneer of ocean technology – pushing the boundaries of endurance and capability with every deployment. Through decades of hard-won experience at the forefront of ocean measurement, the lessons we’ve learned carry forward to each generation of ocean-going platforms and sensors.

Public Benefit

The NOC contributes to the advancement of scientific knowledge of the ocean, as part of a global endeavour. This is both a public good in its own right, which can lead to applications that result directly or indirectly in public benefit.

Our enduring mission is to ‘Make Sense of Changing Seas’

The National Oceanography Centre, existing in its various forms for over six decades, is one of the largest charities in the UK with an annual turnover of over £60 million and employs over 600 staff. It is one of the few research organisations globally that has the equipment and expertise to operate at full ocean depth.

We make sense of the changing seas, on which future human prosperity and wellbeing depend.

Under the Surface

Discover the Big Science we’re undertaking to meet the Big Challenges facing the ocean. Find out about the research and innovation that can protect our ocean, planet and people.

The NOC provides Facilities to the UK Marine Research Community

Advances in ocean science depend on measurements in the ocean. Satellite observations provide data for the surface layer of the ocean. To penetrate beyond the surface, scientists rely on in situ physical measurements from a range of platforms, including research ships, ocean observatories, moorings, and autonomous underwater and surface vehicles.

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World leading innovative science and technology underpinning the ocean economy

The National Oceanography Centre is in a unique position of having world-leading multi-disciplinary scientific and technical expertise which can help unlock the economic and societal potential of the ocean across a range of industry sectors.

Working with Business

A gift allows you to have a direct impact on world leading ocean research and innovation

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In the Spotlight

Latest Publications

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NOC Covid-19 Response

The NOC supports its staff to work from home when possible. We continue to undertake research activities, deliver contractual commitments and maintain our core business functions.