DURIP A microstructure Doppler velocity glider and acoustic localization node for studying interior ocean trajectories (RIOT DRI)
Abstract
This proposal seeks to procure and develop an underwater glider with novel capabilities in acoustic communications and near-bottom sampling at ocean seamounts. Recent theoretical and observational studies suggest that submesoscale processes at seamounts, such as centrifugal instability, generate significant mixing at bottom boundary layers and interior wakes that alter ocean sound speed profiles. Observational studies of the submesoscale are challenging because these small-scale, rapidly evolving flows are often embedded in large-scale currents that dominate signals. The proposed glider will be deployed as part of a heterogeneous autonomous sampling network designed to study rapidly evolving, small-scale mixing processes at seamounts as part of the ONR Researching Interior Ocean Trajectories (RIOT) DRI. Custom backseat control will be fabricated and acoustic communication protocols developed to enable ranging with other gliders and cooperative assets operated by other groups participating in RIOT. The glider will be instrumented with microstructure turbulence and velocity sensors to capture critical data on cross-stream flow velocity and turbulence structure to quantify interior submesoscale dynamics.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 13, 2025
- Source ID
- N000142512095
Entities
People
- Jesse Cusack
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Oregon State University
- United States Navy