Modulation of Surface Wave Fields by Surface Currents
Abstract
Approved for Public ReleaseAutonomous profiling float (Argo) has become the staple of observational tools in the ocean. It has a relatively low cost and long endurance compared to shipboard observations. At any given time, ~4,000 Argo floats are actively profiling the ocean down to ~2,000 m depth, regularly. The EM-APEX float is a special type of Argo float that not only measures the conductivity, temperature, and depth (CTD) but also the horizontal current (u, v). Additional capabilities and payloads have been developed for the EM-APEX float, such as direct microstructure turbulence measurement, passive acoustic sensor observation, and surface wave derivation using residual electromagnetic signals. The last two developments were funded by the Task Force Ocean (TFO) project. The condition of surface waves is related to the sea surface roughness, one of the important parameters in acoustic propagation models. The initial development of the EM-APEX surface wave derivation method has been validated using a field campaign, Langmuir Cell Departmental Research Initiative data. The next phase of the research will be applying the technique to other datasets and using the in-situ observation data of horizontal current and surface wave parameters and comparing them with large-scale satellite measurement and surface wave model products. The understanding of the surface wave fields modulated by surface current potentially could improve model predictions therefore is critical to Navy#s success. The proposed project will support a graduate student#s study toward his doctoral degree at the University of Washington.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 08, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412368
Entities
People
- B. Barry
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Washington