Oceanographic buoys are advanced monitoring systems capable of collecting and transmitting real-time data on marine environmental conditions. Equipped with oceanographic, meteorological and environmental sensors, they measure variables such as waves, currents, temperature, salinity, wind and water quality.
This data is transmitted to a control centre via different communication technologies (GPRS, satellite, AIS, VHF, IoT, etc.), where it is visualised and analysed through specialised platforms. This approach enables the transformation of data into operational insights for decision-making.
Designed to operate autonomously in demanding marine conditions, these solutions ensure continuous monitoring and reliable data in complex environments.
Scientific research and ocean observation
In the scientific field, these systems enable continuous acquisition of high-resolution data, essential for studying oceanographic processes and the evolution of the marine environment.
They support:
- Analysis of marine dynamics (currents, water mass exchange)
- Validation and calibration of numerical models by comparing measured data with predictions
- Monitoring of water quality and ecosystems
Their use is key in research campaigns, ocean observation networks and long-term monitoring projects. Examples include MSM Ocean’s participation in the ICATMAR ODAS network in Catalonia, supplying buoys for continuous oceanographic monitoring, and the SOCIB project (Balearic Islands Coastal Observing System) in the Mediterranean, focused on environmental monitoring and climate processes.
EBM20OC-SAS Oceanographic Buoy installed in Palma Bay as part of a project led by ITCS SOCIB
Climate and extreme events
Continuous monitoring of the marine environment makes it possible to identify environmental trends and anticipate extreme events.
These systems provide:
- Time series for climate change analysis
- Monitoring of climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña
- Early detection of adverse events (storms, thermal anomalies, etc.)
- Data to improve meteorological and oceanographic forecasting models
MSM Ocean has participated in monitoring projects related to climate phenomena such as El Niño in different regions, including the northern coast of Peru and the Galápagos Islands in Ecuador. In these projects, oceanographic buoys have enabled the real-time acquisition and transmission of key oceanographic and meteorological data.
Installation of the EBM24OC in Ecuador for El Niño Phenomenon Research
Maritime safety and port operations
In port environments, the availability of real-time data helps optimise operations and reduce navigation risks.
Monitoring wave, wind and current conditions allows:
- Assessment of port access conditions
- Support for decision-making in critical manoeuvres
- Improved maritime traffic planning
The result is safer, more efficient operations aligned with actual environmental conditions. A representative example is the project developed at San Nicolás terminal (Peru), where monitoring improved port operations through reliable real-time data.
Installation of the Oceanographic Buoy to optimize Port Operations at San Nicolás Dock, Peru
Offshore wind energy
In offshore wind projects, environmental monitoring is essential during early development phases.
These systems enable:
- Metocean characterisation of the site
- Support for wind turbine location selection
- Planning and coordination of operations
- Enhanced maritime safety in wind farm environments
MSM Ocean has participated in projects in the Baltic Sea, where its buoys provided real-time meteorological, environmental and oceanographic data to support offshore wind farm installation operations.
EBM20OC-SAS installed at an Offshore Wind Farm in the Baltic Sea
Aquaculture and marine resources
Real-time water quality monitoring allows optimisation of aquaculture operations.
By controlling parameters such as temperature, dissolved oxygen and turbidity, it is possible to:
- Detect adverse conditions early
- Adjust operational strategies (feeding, production)
- Reduce health risks and losses
This leads to improved productivity and more sustainable operations. MSM Ocean has developed solutions for international aquaculture projects, adapting instrumentation to each site’s specific needs.
Oceanographic Buoy for Aquaculture Operations in Canary Islands
Water quality monitoring
Water quality monitoring is essential for assessing and managing the impact of human activities on marine and coastal ecosystems. These systems provide continuous, real-time information for operational and environmental decision-making.
Key applications include:
- Monitoring impacts from desalination plants, industry, mining and agricultural runoff
- Detection and tracking of harmful events such as hydrocarbons, pollutants and harmful algal blooms (HABs)
- Turbidity monitoring during dredging and coastal construction activities
- Support for municipal management, including beach and bathing water monitoring
These solutions improve environmental protection, support regulatory compliance and optimise coastal management. An example is a project on the Andalusian coast, where monitoring contributes to ecosystem protection through continuous environmental data collection.
Oceanographic Buoy for the protection of Marine Ecosystems along the Andalusian Coast
Conclusion
Marine monitoring using buoy-based systems transforms data into valuable knowledge across multiple sectors.
From scientific research to port operations and renewable energy, real-time information improves analysis capabilities, reduces uncertainty and enables more accurate decision-making.
This approach positions marine monitoring as a transversal element that contributes both to scientific advancement and to the development of marine-related economic activities.
At MSM Ocean, we develop solutions tailored to each project, providing reliable data to support safer, more efficient and sustainable operations.
