Enhancing the capability of the research fleet.
Abstract
While the performance and economics of our vessels and manned platforms are fixed by fundamental principles, their scientific capabilities can be considerably extended through the development of new technology. Potential future systems include multi-beam swath- mapping sonars for 3-D imaging of plankton patchiness, wire-guided profiling velocity sensors for establishing full-ocean-depth velocity profiles, shipboard HF radar (CODAR) for mapping energetic currents, and shipboard Doppler radar for mapping the surface wave spectrum. Research vessel users should have access to undersea gliders and autonomous aircraft as well as the current AUVs. In addition, the use of manned stable platforms in an observatory setting deserves further consideration. As well as providing an ideal mount for meteorological and oceanographic sensors, the platforms can provide electrical power and a "heavy lift" capability for sea floor and water column studies. Concerted community effort will be required to develop these new technologies, not all of which will be commercially viable. A strong academic technology base is necessary.
- Publication:
-
AGU Fall Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- December 2012
- Bibcode:
- 2012AGUFMOS53E..02P
- Keywords:
-
- 4294 OCEANOGRAPHY: GENERAL / Instruments and techniques;
- 4894 OCEANOGRAPHY: BIOLOGICAL AND CHEMICAL / Instruments;
- sensors;
- and techniques