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Ocean Observations

Mike Gregg reported that very little mixing occurred below the thermocline. Deep water warmed during the observational period. Convective events produce near-inertial waves, which are responsible for mixing. Mixing rates are very low compared to middle latitudes.

Carter Ohlmann reported observations of solar flux divergence in the ocean, which is strongly controlled by biomass variations. Peak biomass occurs at the base of the mixed layer.

Dan Rudnick described the pattern followed by the New Horizon. The Sea Soar yielded 2 km horizontal resolution as it ascended and descended in a sawtooth pattern. A pattern was completed in half an inertial period, and 11 full patterns were done. At 10 m depth, the SST front exhibited a 2 K change in 100 m. Fresh water puddles were seen as a result of rain. There was almost no rain south of 6 N.

Nick Shay reported on expendable ocean probe observations. Strong shear was seen 5-7 Oct near 10 N.

Sean Kennan reported on the results of an experiment with the Revelle, 14 June - 26 July 2001. The equatorial counter current was very strong over a 3 week period, with a speed of 70 cm/s to E at 6 N. About 50% of the flow occurs in the upper 50 m.


next up previous
Next: Stratus Region Up: 25 March Previous: Cross-Equatorial Flow
D. J. Raymond 2002-05-13