Illuminating Earth's Past, Present and Future The Science Plan for the International Ocean Discovery Program 2013 - 2023

Planning for the International Ocean Discovery Program began in early 2009 with the solicitation of input from the international community on scientific topics that could be addressed by a new ocean drilling program. In September 2009, approximately 600 scientists from 21 nations gathered at the INVEST conference in Bremen, Germany, to discuss and refine a set of scientific questions that require drilling and associated capabilities deep below the ocean floor (go to http://www.marum.de/Page7894.html to download a full copy of the INVEST report). Subsequent to this meeting, a science plan writing team was assembled, consisting of scientific leaders from Integrated Ocean Drilling Program member countries or consortia having expertise in geology, geophysics, geobiology, paleoclimatology, climate modeling, and geochemistry. This writing committee circulated an early draft of the science plan for community review and comment in late 2010. In early 2011, an external panel reviewed a revised draft, and additional comments and discussions contributed to substantive revision as the final document was prepared. This process demonstrates the foundational strength of scientific ocean drilling: the community’s ability to think big, challenge itself, and incorporate diverse ideas through a rigorous process of peer review and prioritization