PMEL Highlights
NOAA and partners to test limits of technology and science
The Southern Ocean is one of the roughest and most dangerous bodies of water on Earth. It's also key to understanding the global climate system.
The vast distances and harsh conditions of the Southern Ocean have discouraged traditional ship-borne investigations that would help researchers resolve significant questions about just how much carbon dioxide (CO2) the ocean absorbs, especially in winter. That's why scientists are now turning to uncrewed systems.
On September 19, 2026, the first of four sturdy, instrumented Saildrone Explorer
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Our Value to Society
The Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory (PMEL) provides trusted scientific information, critical observations, and groundbreaking research to advance knowledge of the global ocean and its interactions with Earth systems. The work of PMEL scientists and engineers strengthens society's capacity to improve weather/climate predictions, fisheries management, and coastal resilience. PMEL is committed to finding answers to the world's most difficult and pressing environmental challenges.