Jessica Lehman, Lisa M. Campbell, Noella J. Gray, Rebecca L. Gruby, Elizabeth Havice, Emily C. Melvin, Sindhura N. Polepalli
Abstract Ocean observations are of vital importance across marine sciences and industries, including the growing blue economy. However, the robustness of global ocean observations is currently under threat due to proposed budgetary cuts by the US government to key programs. We posit five different scenarios for the future of ocean observations, drawing on ethnograpic data collected at the Third United Nations Ocean Conference held in Nice, France, in June 2025, and related events. These scenarios are not predictions of the future but rather plausible trends that suggest ideas for consideration. We conclude by arguing that the current moment is one of threat and instability for ocean observations, and also one in which new actors and priorities may emerge.