Australia has launched a national network of wave buoys to advance coastal research and improve marine forecasts. Coordinated by the Integrated Marine Observing System (IMOS) and led by Dr. Mike Cuttler and Professor Ryan Lowe from The University of Western Australia (UWA), the initiative involves deploying 23 new wave buoys across the country, with at least one in each state, complemented by additional buoys from regional collaborators.
The buoys measure wave height, period, direction, and water temperatures in nearshore waters, with deployment sites varying in depth from 10 to 70 meters. These solar-powered, low-cost buoys are designed for easy deployment and are moored to the sea floor to collect near real-time data. This data is accessible via the AusWaves website, providing a user-friendly platform for coastal stakeholders to access quality-controlled wave information.
The network aims to enhance the accuracy of marine forecasts, inform marine operations and recreation, and deepen the understanding of ocean and coastal processes. By integrating data from these buoys, researchers and stakeholders can better monitor and manage Australia's dynamic coastal environments.
IMOS is a key component of the Coastal Research Infrastructure (CoastRI), a national initiative coordinated across 13 National Collaborative Research Infrastructure Strategy (NCRIS) capabilities. This initiative underscores Australia's commitment to leveraging innovative technologies for environmental stewardship and coastal protection.