The main objective of ODON (Optimal Design of Observational Networks) is to investigate and develop quantitative methods for the optimal design of observing systems for nowcasts/forecasts in coastal/shelf seas and demonstrate these techniques on SST and T/S profile observing networks in the Baltic and North Sea. 3D ocean models will be run for a one-year period to generate a 'proxy ocean' at the highest presently possible resolution and quality of forcing. With the proxy ocean, sampling distances are optimised based on characteristic scales in T/S fields and sampling locations by using local information content. Quality of the various sampling strategies is then tested by using Observing System Simulation Experiment (OSSE) and cost-benefit analysis is performed for these observing networks. 

Major ODON deliverables are 3D ocean models with data assimilation, high resolution proxy ocean, quality evaluation and cost-benefit analysis of dozens of Baltic-North Sea T/S observing systems.They have wide implication on marine economy and scientific and technological prospects.

For more information about ODON and its partners, read here.