On-shell scattering amplitudes have cast aside intermediate unphysical quantities and put a spotlight on what can actually be measured. This new paradigm has led to deeper understanding and more tractable predictions in high-energy physics, gravity, and cosmology. Given the success and universal features of scattering amplitudes, it is natural to ask whether they can be applied to practical systems such as ocean surface waves, including rogue waves. I will review recent strides in understanding ocean surface waves and how this approach has resolved a long-standing question in fluid dynamics. I will also discuss some lessons from using AI to augment scientific discovery. https://arxiv.org/abs/2606.28280
