AN OCEANOGRAPHIC AIRCRAFT.
Abstract
A Lockheed Super Constellation was fitted with airborne oceanographic sensors for measuring sea surface temperature, temperature at depth, and gravity waves. Surface temperature varying from -2 degrees to 35 C is determined from measurement of 8- to 13- micron infrared radiation. At aircraft speeds of 300 feet per second the system records continuously the average sea surface temperature of an area 1,200 meters square. Vertical ocean temperature profiles are recorded to depths of 300 meters by expendable bathythermographs during flight. Surface waves are measured with a precise radar-ranging technique for profile mapping of the ocean wave structure. Wave heights from 0.3 to 15 meters are resolved for waves 30 - 600 meters in length. Meteorological sensors are also used for measuring atmospheric temperature, pressure, and humidity at flight level. Field data collected during an aerial survey are presented to show the qualitative and quantitative value of airborne oceanographic measurements. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0809823
Entities
People
- John C. Wilkerson
- John J. Schule Jr.
Organizations
- Naval Oceanographic Office