Adopt-a-drifter

Argo Floats are oceanographic instruments that measure ocean temperature, salinity and pressure at different depths. There are Argo Floats drifting in the ocean across the world, including the oceans surrounding South Africa. An Argo Float typically floats to the surface, from a depth of 2km, every 10 days measuring the temperature and salinity profile of the water as it slowly rises. At the surface, the float will send the data collected to a satellite, within a day this data is available online for anyone to use. The Argo float then sinks again and drifts for nine days before starting the process again. Each float is designed to make 150 such cycles, collecting valuable data on the ocean profile.

SAEON’s Egagasini Node makes use of this freely available data as a tool to not only teach learners about the ocean and the effects of climate change but to teach them computer (using excel) and data analysis skills. You can find out how to download this data under the Support Materials tab.