Exploring the ocean for national benefit

NOAA Ocean Exploration is the only federal program dedicated to exploring the unknown ocean, unlocking its potential through scientific discovery, technological advancements, partnerships, data delivery, and education.

Learn About Science & Exploration

Learn about Ocean Exploration

Dive into ocean exploration by exploring materials such as stories, ocean facts, and images and videos, organized by topic for learners of all ages and levels.

Ocean Science for Everyone
For Educators
Multimedia

Highlights

Annual Report
A high-density coral community seen living on boulders near the summit of the seamount explored during Dive 04 of the Papahānaumokuākea ROV and Mapping expedition.

NOAA Ocean Exploration 2025: A Year in Review

In 2025, NOAA Ocean Exploration led and supported expeditions to enable scientific discovery; tested and supported the development of new and emerging technologies; shared our work with a variety of audiences; strengthened our network of partners; and more.
Remotely operated vehicle Deep Discoverer illuminating the wreck of USS Yorktown against a dark ocean background.
Photogrammetry
USS Yorktown Photogrammetry Model
A small round jellyfish and brittle star arms on a delicate coral with the rocky seafloor in the background.
Exploration Extras
March Desktop Wallpaper Calendar

News Updates

General
10 Years of the “Casper” Octopus
Education
Ocean Exploration Education – Facilitator Training in Dauphin Island
Event • Opportunity
NOAA Ocean Exploration to Host Blue Technology Education Workshop
Event
NOAA-Supported Expedition on E/V Nautilus to Explore Deep Waters of the Cook Islands
Discovery
NOAA and Partners Map the Seafloor in Southernmost Hawaiian Exclusive Economic Zone
Discovery • Publication
Jellyfish Found by Team Aboard NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer Shatters Range Assumptions

Our Expeditions by the Numbers

NOAA Ocean Exploration coordinates, funds, and conducts expeditions around the globe that feed the essential research and scientific inquiry necessary to understand the features and phenomena of the ocean to support informed resource management decisions.

View Data and Products
Featured Statistics
443,304 Square Kilometers of Seafloor Mapped
180+ Days at Sea on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer
5.5 Million Website Views
400+ Educators Trained

Status: NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer

In October, NOAA Ocean Exploration wrapped up operations on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer for the 2025 calendar year. We expect to resume operations in the Pacific in April 2026. Keep an eye out for more information!

Learn about Beyond the Blue
A pinkish-red fish with a textured body sits on dark, rocky seafloor.

Featured Favorite

While we saw few fish during Dive 10 of the Papahānaumokuākea ROV and Mapping expedition, we were lucky enough to catch a glimpse of this sea toad (Chaunacops sp.).

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Explore More with NOAA Ocean Exploration

Learn more about our mission, people, impact, and other resources.