Studying nutrients in the Indian Ocean
Universitas Brawijaya
Universitas Brawijaya (UB) , established in 1962, is located in the city of Malang, in the province of Jawa Timur, Indonesia. The Marine Science Study Program focuses on four main areas, namely coastal and marine resource conservation, oceanography, exploration, and biotechnology.
The challenge
Marine research in Indonesia faces several challenges, particularly the high cost and logistical difficulties associated with obtaining in-situ data and specialized analytical instruments. The vast and diverse marine environments of the Indonesian archipelago require significant resources for field campaigns and data acquisition, which can limit the scope and continuity of research and educational activities.
The satellite solution
To overcome these barriers, the UB integrates satellite-based ocean data from the Copernicus Marine Service into its marine research and education programs. The freely available datasets offer a practical and cost-effective alternative to extensive fieldwork, enabling both researchers and students to access consistent, reliable information to analyze environmental parameters (in particular nutrient levels) relevant to the assessment of the Indian Ocean.
By using the reliable, open-access products of the Copernicus Marine Service, Universitas Brawijaya has increased its capacity to study and teach about the health of the oceans. Students learn to explore and monitor key indicators of ecosystem change, contributing to national and regional awareness of the challenges facing the ocean environment.
The results
- Accessible learning resources: Students can actively engage with real-world oceanographic data, enhancing their analytical skills and understanding of marine systems.
- Cost-effective research: Researchers can carry out studies continuously without interruptions due to funding or lack of access to instrumentation.
- Capacity building: The initiative helps build local expertise in marine science and remote sensing technologies.