Abstract
The recent integration of Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) onto underwater gliders changes the way current and sediment dynamics in the coastal zone can be monitored. Their endurance and ability to measure in all weather conditions increases the probability of capturing sporadic meteorological events, such as storms and floods, which are key elements of sediment dynamics. We used a Slocum glider equipped with a CTD (Conductivity, Temperature, Depth), an optical payload, and an RDI 600 kHz phased array ADCP. Two deployments were carried out during two contrasting periods of the year in the Rhone River region of freshwater influence (ROFI). Coastal absolute currents were reconstructed using the shear method and bottom tracking measurements, and generally appear to be in geostrophic balance. The responses of the acoustic backscatter index and optical turbidity signals appear to be linked to changes of the particle size distribution in the water column. Significantly, this study shows the interest of using a glider-ADCP for coastal zone monitoring. However, the comparison between suspended particulate matter dynamics from satellites and gliders also suggests that a synoptic view of the processes involved requires a multiplatform approach, especially in systems with high spatial and temporal variability, such as the Rhone ROFI area.
Highlights
Sediment dynamics on continental margins play an essential role in marine habitats and ecosystems dynamics, in the dispersion and sequestration of land-derived chemical elements and, in the long term, the evolution of continental shelf morphology [1]
This dynamic is influenced by multiple forcings, which strongly affect the spatio-temporal variability of suspended particulate matter (SPM) distribution
Technological advances in ocean color satellite observation have made it possible to describe the variability of SPM dynamics in the surface layer of the coastal zone on large spatial and temporal scales [2,3,4]
Summary
Sediment dynamics on continental margins play an essential role in marine habitats and ecosystems dynamics, in the dispersion and sequestration of land-derived chemical elements (e.g., carbon, contaminants) and, in the long term, the evolution of continental shelf morphology [1]. This dynamic is influenced by multiple forcings (river discharges, currents, wind, waves), which strongly affect the spatio-temporal variability of suspended particulate matter (SPM) distribution. In-situ monitoring throughout the water column is essential to characterize the spatio-temporal variability of the processes involved in sediment transport and deposition in coastal areas [5]. Autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), such as gliders, appear to be useful tools for the monitoring of coastal hydrodynamics, sediment transport, and coastal ecosystems, especially during extreme events such as floods and storms, which are critical elements of sediment dynamics and particulate transport in the coastal zone [5,6,7,8]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
