This invited seminar at Chalmers University of Technology presents an integrated vision of multi-platform ocean observation and its role in advancing scientific frontiers and transforming oceanography through regional digital twins. The presentation is structured around four themes: (1) the overarching goal of understanding and responding to ocean and climate change, and whether current structures are adapting adequately; (2) multi-platform and integrated observing and modelling approaches for connecting the pieces of an N-dimensional puzzle, including long time series, mesoscale and submesoscale dynamics, and the role of autonomous platforms such as underwater gliders; (3) the centrality of data, interoperability, and open science — including FAIR data principles, Core TRUST Seal repositories, and the European Open Science Cloud — as pathways to breaking down silos and improving the science-policy interface; and (4) Digital Twins of the Ocean as an opportunity for effective integration and transformative change, while warning against unrealistic expectations. SOCIB, the Balearic Islands Coastal Ocean Observing and Forecasting System born from IMEDEA, is presented as a regional case study illustrating 17 years of sustained multiplatform observation, open data management, and science-to-society translation across 10 sectors. Scientific highlights include the CALYPSO US-ONR programme (vertical velocities at submesoscale structures up to 1000 m/day; Mahadevan et al., 2020; Zarokanellos et al., 2022) and 14-year Ibiza Channel glider endurance lines (Juza et al., 2025). Societal tools presented include meteotsunami early warning (BRIFS), Mediterranean Marine Heat Waves indicators, IBISAR search-and-rescue support, and bluefin tuna stock assessment indices. Citizen Science initiatives are presented as key components for the near future, emphasizing the need for reliable and effective citizen science, “beyond the hype”, with well stablished and implemented standards and protocols. Citizen Science becomes a scientific asset only when embedded in the same data value chain as professional observing systems. The presentation concludes with a discussion on ocean integration, cultural change, and the five key components required for regional digital twins, in the context of DITTO, CoastPredict, and the UN Ocean Decade.
Joaquín Tintoré (Wed,) studied this question.