An Update to the NSF Arctic Observing Network (AON) Program
Dear Colleagues:
This letter is to inform the community of an important update to the Arctic Sciences Section's (ARC) Arctic Observing Network (AON) program. Now is an opportune time to conduct a comprehensive assessment of observing and research priorities to help ensure a robust and sustained Arctic Observing Network program at NSF over the coming decade that builds on past strengths.
Effective immediately, the AON program is no longer accepting full research proposals for consideration in calendar year 2025. AON will continue to accept proposals for Arctic Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (NSF 20-597), conferences (NSF 23-052), EArly-concept Grants for Exploratory Research (EAGER) and Rapid Response Research (RAPID) proposals, as well as requests for supplemental funding as per the current NSF Proposal and Award Policies and Procedures Guide (PAPPG). Please contact the AON Program Directors (Dr. Lauren Culler, lculler@nsf.gov, and Dr. Roberto Delgado, robdelga@nsf.gov) in advance of any proposed submissions in these categories.
This pause on full AON research proposals is being used to review and update AON priorities, complete strategic planning, and to lower the current out-year funding commitments to enhance responsiveness to new and innovative ideas. Emerging opportunities for the AON program include but are not limited to setting long-term Arctic observing objectives; identifying infrastructural, logistical, and technological needs for sustained Arctic observations; coordinating deployment strategies (including for aircraft, research vessels, and other platforms); improving data management systems; strengthening interagency and international partnerships; and developing criteria for sunsetting or transferring long-term observing networks.
The Office of Polar Programs thanks the community for its patience and urges their participation in AON strategy development activities during the coming year.
Sincerely,
James McManus
Acting Assistant Director
Directorate for Geosciences