Exploration advances the breadth of knowledge and Research advances the depth of knowledge.

Our Vision is that of a society that understands the importance of a healthy ocean to all life on Earth and is informed and inspired by discoveries that reveal the wonders, mysteries, and workings of the ocean.

Our Mission is to support national and NOAA objectives by exploring the Earth's largely unknown ocean in all its dimensions for the purpose of discovery and the advancement of knowledge, using state-of-the-art technologies in evolutionary and revolutionary ways.

Cutting-edge technologies and methodologies continue to be developed by the men and women dedicated to ocean exploration, but the potential of ocean exploration has only begun to be met. OER is investing in new technologies, in state-of-the-art platforms, undersea vehicles and infrastructure, in data and information management, in transmission networks, in research programs, and in the efforts to inform and educate society on the importance of a National program dedicated to ocean exploration and research. Through its important work, OER will certainly make discoveries and perform breakthroughs to the benefit of all life on Earth.

Go to OER Strategic Plan ...

In 2011, NOAA's Office of Ocean Exploration and Research celebrated 10 years of Ocean Exploration and more than 30 years of Undersea Research. One of the many accomplishments made by this Program since 2001 is displayed below.