SOCIB: Integrated Multi-Platform Real-Time Ocean Observing in the Balearic Sea

Abstract

High-resolution oceanographic monitoring is essential for managing the Mediterranean Sea, a major climate-change hotspot and a hub of socio-economic activity. The Balearic Islands Coastal Observing and Forecasting System (SOCIB) addresses this need through an integrated multiplatform network, including autonomous gliders, HF radars, and metocean buoys. This work describes SOCIB’s operational observing framework and evaluates its contribution to assessing the physical and biogeochemical variability of the Western Mediterranean. SOCIB provides real-time metocean data such as currents, waves, and winds essential for optimizing maritime operations, enhancing safety, and supporting regulatory compliance. Furthermore, integrating these datasets into numerical models and AI-based predictive systems improves risk mitigation and early warning systems for coastal hazards. Looking ahead, SOCIB aims to expand its spatial coverage, deploy new autonomous platforms, and contribute to a Digital Twin of the Mediterranean, ensuring safe and sustainable marine operations.