Journal
What Is the Gulf Stream and Why Is It Important?
August 31, 2026
The Gulf Stream is a fast, warm current in the western North Atlantic. Learn its route, speed, climate influence and relationship to…
Stories from the ocean
Journals
In-depth stories, explainers, and news about ocean science, education, policy, and the Mediterranean Sea Decade.
Journal
How Do Ocean Currents Work?
August 29, 2026
Ocean currents are driven by wind, tides and density differences. Learn how surface and deep circulation move heat, nutrients and marine life.
Journal
What Causes Tides? The Moon, Sun and Tidal Cycles
August 27, 2026
Tides are long waves driven mainly by the Moon’s gravity and modified by the Sun, coastline and seabed. Understand high, low, spring…
Journal
What Causes Ocean Waves? From Wind to Breaking Surf
August 25, 2026
Most ocean waves are created by wind transferring energy to water. Learn how fetch, swell, seafloor depth and storms shape the waves…
Journal
Mariana Trench Facts: Depth, Location and Life
August 23, 2026
Discover where the Mariana Trench is, how deep Challenger Deep reaches, how it formed and what can live under extreme pressure.
Journal
Ocean Zones Explained: Sunlight, Twilight and Midnight Zones
August 21, 2026
Explore the sunlight, twilight and midnight zones of the ocean, their depths, light levels and the adaptations that help marine life survive.
Journal
Sea vs Ocean: What Is the Difference?
August 19, 2026
A sea is generally smaller than an ocean and often partly enclosed by land. See the geographic difference, examples and important exceptions.
Journal
How Many Oceans Are There? The Five Oceans Explained
August 17, 2026
Most countries recognise five oceans: Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern and Arctic. They are named regions of one connected global ocean.
Journal
How Much of the Ocean Has Been Explored?
August 15, 2026
Only a fraction of the ocean has been visually explored, and slightly more than a quarter has high-resolution seafloor mapping. Learn why.
Journal
How Deep Is the Ocean? Average Depth and Deepest Point
August 13, 2026
The ocean is about 3,682 metres deep on average, while Challenger Deep reaches roughly 10,935 metres. See how scientists measure it.