South Florida Ocean Measurement Facility and Nova Southeastern University Coastal Environmental Research FY23

Abstract

Under previous contracts with the US Navy, Nova Southeastern University (NSU) developed and deployed the Nova Environmental Sensor Suite (NESS), which includes acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP), conductivity temperature depth (CTD), and bottom pressure moorings. In parallel, NSU has developed a high-resolution oceanographic and magnetohydrodynamic model including NESS data, which can model and predict ocean currents. NSU has also implemented Teledyne Slocum G3 gliders, a Wirewalker, and a high frequency Wave Radar to enhance the measurements collected from NESS and applied to the model. Validation of the computational fluid dynamics model (CFDM1 and 2) is in progress using field data from recent NESS deployments at NEMO under another Navy project. NESS functions as a stand-alone system that can obtain environmental data around the world, and, in combination with the upgraded and verified CFDM, as a tool to predict ocean circulation and the magnetic signature of sub-mesoscale oceanographic processes including internal wave solitons.In this new project, our specific scientific objectives are as follows:1.Design, conduct and analyze portable ambient ocean experiments, data acquisition, and analysis efforts to validate CFD-MHD (computational fluid dynamic #magneto hydro dynamic) model. 2.Collect, process, store and analyze experiment data including ADCP (long-range and high resolution short-range), pressure, surface wave and magnetic data. 3.Plan a three-month experiment, including running the CFD-MHD model, for an overseas alternate location in the UKwith the portable NESS.4.Assimilate South Florida and regional oceanographic data into CFD-MHD model to increase fidelity and improve model prediction with the expertise of NRL Stennis.5.Evaluate options for DTS implementation and assess modeling benefits. Research existing Navy technology available and how it may be best implemented on the SFOMF range and suitability for the CFD-MHD model. 6.Upgrade and harden existing Wirewalker mooring for future use in the Pacific and upgrading the second glider with an ADCP tool.7.Support GIS (geographic information system) baseline mapping of detailed bathymetry and infrastructure covering the Navy range out todeep water in collaboration with Dr. Brian Walker (NSU). The NESS, including the ADCP, CTD, bottom pressure, and bottom magnetometer moorings will eventually function as a stand-alone system for obtaining environmental data around the world. When tested and verified, the upgraded CFDM and NESS can serve as an innovative tool for predicting ocean circulation and the magnetic signature of sub-mesoscale oceanographic processes including internal wave solitons at any location around the world.

Document Details

Document Type
DoD Grant Award
Publication Date
Aug 11, 2023
Source ID
N000142312746

Entities

People

  • Alexander Soloviev

Organizations

  • Nova Southeastern University
  • Office of Naval Research
  • United States Navy

Tags

Fields of Study

  • Environmental science

Readers

  • Coastal Oceanography
  • Oceanography.
  • Research Science/Academic Research

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy