|
|
 |
|
|
Ann. Geophys., 21, 75-87, 2003
www.ann-geophys.net/21/75/2003/
© European Geosciences Union 2003
The Mediterranean Moored Multi-sensor Array (M3A): system development and initial results
K. Nittis1, C. Tziavos1, I. Thanos2, P. Drakopoulos3, V. Cardin4, M. Gačić4, G. Petihakis3, and R. Basana5
1National Centre for Marine Research, Institute of Oceanography, A. Kosmas Hellinikon, 16604, Athens, Greece
2Marine Technology Development Company (MARTEDEC) SA, Athens, Greece
3Institute of Marine Biology of Crete, Heraklion, Greece
4Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale, Trieste, Italy
5Tecnomare SA, Venice, Italy
Abstract. Operational forecasting
of ocean circulation and marine ecosystem fluctuations requires
multi-parametric real-time measurements of physical and biochemical properties.
The architecture of a system that is able to provide such measurements from the
upper-thermocline layers of the Mediterranean Sea is described here. The system
was developed for the needs of the Mediterranean Forecasting System and
incorporates state-of-the-art sensors for optical and chemical measurements in
the upper 100 m and physical measurements down to 500 m. Independent moorings
that communicate via hydro-acoustic modems are hosting the sensors. The
satellite data transfer and the large autonomy allow for the operation of the
system in any open-ocean site. The system has been in pre-operational use in
the Cretan Sea since January 2000. The results of this pilot phase indicate
that multi-parametric real-time observations with the M3A system are feasible,
if a consistent maintenance and re-calibration program is followed. The main
limitations of the present configuration of M3A are related: (a) to bio-fouling
that primarily affects the turbidity and secondarily affects the other optical
sensors, and (b) to the limited throughput of the currently used satellite
communication system.
Key words. Atmospheric composition
and structure (instruments and techniques.) Oceanography: general (ocean
prediction) Oceanography: physical (upper ocean process)
Full Article in PDF (1073 KB) |
|
|
