A Continuing Ocean Observing Collaboration To Improve Hurricane And Loop Current Forecasting And Modeling In The Gulf Of Mexico - Insights From The 2017 And 2018 Seasons

Shell Exploration & Production Company and collaborators have been working together since 2008 to expand and extend long-term data monitoring programs in the Gulf of Mexico. One of the main programs involves underwater glider operations in the central Gulf of Mexico. Data collected from the gliders is used to monitor the physical environment and to better understand the Loop Current System. In this paper, we summarize Loop Current dynamics and glider observations during the 2017 and 2018 seasons and discuss benefits and address challenges encountered operating an ocean observing public-private partnership.