GEORGE will enhance the observing capability of ERICs and their effectiveness in monitoring ocean biogeochemistry and carbon cycling by: a) advancing the technology readiness level of state-of-the-art sensors (WP2), b) enhancing the observing capability of autonomous platforms (WP3) equipping them with the latest sensor technology and developing communication from and between platforms and by incorporating novel autonomous vehicles to the ERIC observing fleet, c) harmonising technologies, methods and SOPs for biogeochemical observing and develop a framework for multi-platform, cross-ERIC biogeochemical observing from sensor to data repositories (WP4), d) building capacity in ERICs by providing training in the use of new technologies and SOPs on data handling and reporting to staff and member organisations (WP6), and e) facilitating cooperation between industry and ERICs ensuring direct route to market and potential for scalability (eg. WPs 2,3,7) of new technologies.
Significant progress was made across all key objectives. Novel sensors for DIC and TA were produced, calibrated, optimised and tested at full ocean depth (6000m). Sensors were deployed both on gliders and landers. The Capasos system (Calibrated pCO2 in Air and Surface Ocean Sensor) was integrated in an unmanned, autonomous surface vehicle Sailbuoy. Commercial off-the-shelf technologies were further developed and upgraded, i.e. Clear Water Sensors redesigns improved reagent cartridge robustness in harsher conditions and improvements in build quality and measurement quality of the sensors. 4H-Jena produced two autonomous sensors (HydroC® CO2 for 6000 m depth and HydroC® CH4 for 6000 m depth) to characterise the potential pressure and temperature influence on measurement quality, response time and detection limit.
GEORGE advanced in"greening" of Research Infrastructures as it facilitated a joint action between IFREMER and Euro-Argo ERIC to do the 1st global Argo recovery operation ever conducted using a low-carbon approach. The main achievement was the recovery of 10 Argo floats in the North Atlantic in June 2024.
Organisation of Technological Forums to share expertise among the RI technicians and station PIs started at the 1st Technological Forum. There will be three different Technologial forums. They will be made available via a massive Open Online Course platform open to all. The introductory part of this platform was opened during the 2nd reporting period.
