Autonomous sampling of near-inertial wave generation, evolution and dissipation in highly heterogeneous, 3D environments with Turbo-ROSS
Abstract
Meso- and submeso-scale gradients in near-surface stratification, velocity and vorticityalter the structure of near-inertial wave (NIW) generation, propagation, and dissipation. Indirect evidence and model/theoretical predictions indicate a myriad of processes through which NIWs are generated and transformed. However, the relative importance of each mechanism, the interplay between them, and the rates of energy transfer have not been observed. Here we propose to use Robotic Oceanographic Surface Samplers (ROSSs) to elucidate and quantify NIW dynamics within a highly-heterogeneous 3D submesoscale. The next version of ROSS (Turbo-ROSS) will be augmented with an atmospheric flux package, turbulence sensors, satellite communications and advanced navigation that will permit ROSS to autonomously track and sample across submesoscale features of interest. Two Turbo-ROSSs will work in conjuction with other DRI assets to carry out coordinated, adaptive transects of velocity, density and turbulence on both sides of the air-sea interface and down to 150-m depths. These will provide highly-resolved synoptic measurements to 1) uniquely map out the spatial structure, amplitude and phase of wave-like motions near the small-scale fronts where near-inertial transformations are likely important; 2) identify signatures of particular dynamical instabilities (in vorticity, for example) that are impossible without multiple synchronized platforms, 3) quantify the resultant heat/mass/ momentum transports associated with these dynamics, and 4) relate these to atmospheric forcing/fluxes, which will be simultaneouslymeasured.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 10, 2018
- Source ID
- N000141812399
Entities
People
- Jonathan D. Nash
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Oregon State University
- United States Navy