Multiscale Investigations of the Submesocale Energy Cascade using Autonomous Platforms - a contribution to the ARCTERX DRI
Abstract
The challenges associated with accurately representing the transfer of energy in the forward cascade, where submesoscale processes m ove energy from the mesoscale to smaller scales, has impeded efforts toward synoptic (days, tens of kilometers) upper ocean forecast s. The problem is acute in regions like the Western Pacific, which exhibits elevated eddy kinetic energy associated with intense cur rents, meanders, filaments, eddies, internal waves and fronts. We thus propose an observational study of submesoscale instabilities and their role in driving downscale energy transfer and rapid evolution of the upper ocean. A system of long-endurance autonomous pl atforms (SGX gliders and SV3 Waveglider) will be used to collect sustained measurements in regions of strong lateral density contras ts during winter, when mixed layers are deep and atmospheric forcing is strong. Sampling will combine repeated sections for statisti cal analyses and targeted process studies. The analysis of extensive measurements collected as part of previous projects in the ARCT ERX region will be used to expand the scope of the proposed analyses. The proposed work will build upon long-standing collaboration with colleagues at National Taiwan University and draw on our teams extensive experience working in the target region.Approved for Public Release
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Oct 22, 2021
- Source ID
- N000142112885
Entities
People
- Craig Lee
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Washington