Mission:
– Study of coastal evolution and morphodynamics, for instance, assessing shoreline change trends (prograding, retreating or stability)
– Geomorphology ,Sedimentology, marine geology and cartography of coasts and seabed
– Planning and Management services for decision making on coastal areas
– Guidelines for adaptation options related to climatic changes
– Further education and Environmental education

What is O.C.E.A.N.S.?
The Osservatorio Coste E Ambiente Naturale Sottomarino (O.C.E.A.N.S. – Coastal and Submarine Environment Observatory) can host up to twelve researchers and is equipped with three laboratories: geomorphology and marine geophysics, sedimentology, cartography and GIS.
O.C.E.A.N.S. is well equipped with state-of-the-art technology provided by Cagliari and Trieste University for the study of the coasts and sea bottom. Its headquarters is at Punta Sardegna Lighthouse (Palau) in the heart of the Bonifacio Straits, about 40km from Olbia Costa Smeralda airport, and is managed through an agreement between the two universities and the Palau Town Council.
Currently, the structure serves both as a base for the Coastal and Marine Geomorphology Group’s didactic and research activities (coordinated by Prof. Sandro De Muro) and is also open to all researchers in Marine Science. Furthermore, it can be used by the local authorities (Town Council and Province), by the Regional Government, and the Ministries involved in environmental development and protection, as well as by National Parks and Protected Marine Areas providing environmental management support.
The main area of research of the centre, which has been based in Palau since 1990, focusses on the dynamics and evolution of the coastlines and the continental shelf of the Bonifacio Straits. Monitoring activity of the beach systems in the areas between the Foce del Coghinas and Budoni beach (Gallura) with particular attention to the Maddalena Archipelago and those in the Palau area is also carried out.
One of the Observatory’s main objectives is to divulge scientific information in agreement with the Ministry of Education and with the University policies. O.C.E.A.N.S. is therefore at the complete disposal of Schools, Institutions and Associations, which not only deal directly with the coasts and the sea, but also wish to preserve them and bring out the most in them