VOS recruits ships and trains crews to record and transmit weather observations at sea to assist in providing more accurate marine forecasts and warnings, and in support of climate and research activities.
Meteorological services of most maritime countries recruit ships that are regularly visiting their shores to take marine meteorological observations and transmit them to shore.
Ships are recruited by Members of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), usually through Port Meteorological Officers (PMOs) who are responsible for providing the necessary training and equipment to ensure high quality observations. Participating ships voluntarily provide these observations at no cost.
VOS activities are coordinated by the VOS Panel as part of the broader Ship Observations Team.
