Program: Arctic Observing Network

The AON is envisioned as a system of atmospheric, land- and ocean-based environmental monitoring capabilities--from ocean buoys to satellites--that will significantly advance our observations of Arctic environmental conditions.  AON is an integral part of the interagency U.S. government initiative--the Study of Environmental Arctic Change (SEARCH) program, an NSF initiative growing out of the International Polar Year (IPY) to improve observational capabilities in the Arctic and leave a long-term legacy for the benefit of science and society.  Data from the AON will contribute to scientific research leading to (1) increased knowledge and understanding of the regional and global causes and consequences of present-day environmental arctic change, (2) scenarios for and prediction of the course of future arctic change and its regional and global consequences, and (3) the development of adaptive responses to arctic change.

AON currently consists of 51 projects funded by the NSF Office of Polar Programs. The AON projects fall into the following SEARCH Implementation Plan categories: Atmosphere; Ocean and Sea Ice; Hydrology/Cryosphere; Terrestrial Ecosystems; and Human Dimensions.