The project is currently upgrading the over 290 stations it currently runs, so that they can send real time data via satellite to newly set up national tsunami centres.
[citation needed] They are also fitting the stations with solar panels so they can continue to operate even if the mains power supply is interrupted by severe weather.
The concept for GLOSS was proposed to the IOC by oceanographers David Pugh and Klaus Wyrtki in order to develop the Permanent Service for Mean Sea Level (PSMSL) data bank.
[1] The PSMSL states that "GLOSS provides oversight and coordination for global and regional sea level networks in support of, and with direction from, the oceanographic and climate research communities.
The research that is provided by GLOSS is important for many things including research into sea level change and ocean circulation, coastal protection during events such as storm surges, providing flood warning and monitoring tsunamis, tide tables for port operations, fisherman, and recreation, to define datums for national or state boundaries.