The International Argo Program measures the properties of ocean waters using robotic instruments. These instruments flow with ocean currents and spend almost their entire lives below the sea surface.
It describes the temperature and salinity of sea water as well as the biology/chemistry of the ocean.
The main purpose of collecting these data is to help scientists understand the role of oceans in Earth's climate.
There is no central funding for this programme. It receives national funding from each of the 30 countries that operate the equipment.