Abstract
This chapter describes the new drifters and summarizes the global data set of near-surface current observations and the calculations with that data that were the objectives of World Ocean Circulation Experiment (WOCE). It discusses the mean circulation, the eddy energy distribution, and the wind-driven, or Ekman currents. The chapter also explores how low-cost, rugged, satellite-fixed drifters were made and the methods of deriving a map of ocean currents from drifter data in a wind- and wave-tossed ocean. The maps of the mean circulation, its uncertainty and the eddy energy on the spatial resolution set out in WOCE plans along with the interpretation of the observed circulation in terms of the local wind-driven or Ekman currents is also presented. The Global Drifter Programme, or Surface Velocity Programme (SVP) drifters, serves as platforms to which sensors are attached for observing winds, salinity, temperature, ocean color, and atmospheric pressure. WOCE surface circulation data were obtained with a new instrumental methodology, which represents an important development in the instrumental technology of ocean current observations.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
