Hey everyone! I’m a Master’s student based in Melbourne working on a project called FLOAT WITH IT, an interactive installation that raises awareness about rip currents and beach safety to reduce drowning among locals and tourists who often visit Australian beaches without knowing the risks. The installation uses real-time ocean data to project dynamic visuals of waves and rip currents onto the ground. Participants can literally step into the projection, interact with motion-tracked currents, and learn how rip currents behave and more importantly, how to respond safely.
For this project, I’m looking for access to a live ocean data API that provides: Wave height / direction / period Tidal data Current speed and direction For Australian coastal areas (especially Jan Juc Beach, Victoria) I’ve already looked into sources like Surfline, and some open marine data APIs, but most are limited or don’t offer live updates for Australian waters. Does anyone know of a public, educational, or low-cost API I could use for this? Even tips on where to find reliable live ocean datasets would be super helpful! This is a non-commercial, university research project, and I’ll be crediting any data sources used in the final installation and exhibition. Thanks so much for your help I’d love to hear from anyone working with ocean data, marine monitoring, or interactive visualisation!
TLDR; Im a Master’s student creating an interactive installation about rip currents and beach safety in Australia. Looking for live ocean data APIs (wave, tide, current info, especially for Jan Juc Beach VIC). Need something public, affordable, or educational-access friendly. Any leads appreciated!
submitted by /u/pranavron
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