The size distribution of marine primary organic aerosols, the organic component of sea spray, has been measured for the first time down to 35 nanometres from long-term observations in clean North Atlantic air. It is bimodal, whereas the parameterization in major climate models is unimodal and underestimates particle number threefold. The resulting underestimate in cloud condensation nuclei reaches 16 to 64 per cent at marine supersaturations, assuming 30 per cent lower surface tension.

A steady “snowfall” of tiny particles carries carbon, nutrients and pollution from the ocean’s surface toward the deep sea. Scientists can see those particles sinking, but determining exactly what they contain is much harder. University of Rhode Island Graduate School of Oceanography Research Professor Melissa Omand is turning to artificial intelligence to help solve that problem. The National Science Foundation awarded nearly $700,000 to the team for the three-year project, which is scheduled to begin in January 2027 and run through December 2029.

FAU and Blue Ops, a maritime division of Red Cat Holdings, have established a strategic partnership to bring Blue Ops’ uncrewed maritime systems operations to FAU Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute in Fort Pierce. The partnership will create a hub for research, development, testing, training and collaboration in ocean technology, autonomous systems and national defense, while providing opportunities for joint research, student internships and scholarships, workforce development, and real-world testing of emerging maritime technologies.

Saturn’s icy moon Enceladus might be more supportive of life than was previously thought. An LMU study reveals that microorganisms could survive in its hidden ocean.

Scientists have helped solve a longstanding mystery about how Earth remained habitable after oxygen first accumulated in its atmosphere more than 2 billion years ago, providing evidence that an ancient ocean chemistry sustained life-friendly conditions.