Global Sea Level Observing System (GLOSS)

The Global Sea Level Observing System (GLOSS) is a global endeavour requiring the coordinated participation of an international group of agencies. The GLOSS sea level data centres provide complimentary data streams while helping to shape the future of the global in situ sea level observing network. In general, GLOSS data centres are associated with scientists involved with sea level research, which helps to maximise the quality of GLOSS datasets. Each of the data centres hold tide gauge data in addition to the GLOSS Core Network stations. 

Sea level is one of the most useful oceanographic variables, used for a wide variety of scientific, economic and social purposes. Sea level data are vital for:

• research into sea level change and ocean circulation;
• coastal protection during events such as storm surges;
• providing flood warning and monitoring tsunamis;
• tide tables for port operations, fishermen, and recreation;
• defining datums for national or state boundaries.