A vector-averaging wind recorder (VWAR) system for surface meteorological measurements in CODE (Coastal Ocean Dynamics Experiment)

Abstract

As part of the Coastal Ocean Dynamics Experiment (CODE) field program, moored buoys were instrumented to measure and record wind speed and direction, air and water temperature, insolation, barometric pressure and relative humidity. Appropriate sensors were selected, necessary modifications to the sensors and existing current meters were made, and Vector Averaging Wind Recorders (VAWRs) were assembled. R. M. Young utility rotor and vane wind sets designed by G. Gill, Paroscientific Digiquartz pressure sensors, Eppley pyranometers and Hy-Cal relative humidity and solar sensors were used in two field experiments . Standard VACM direction and temperature sensors were maintained in the wind recorders. Devices were constructed as needed to protect against measurement errors due to wind, sun and ocean spray. Four W.H.O.I. VAWRs with Gill wind sensor sets were deployed CODE-1 in 1981. Seven VAWRs were deployed in CODE-2 in 1982. A modified VMCM (Vector Measuring Current Meter) was used for comparison in CODE-1, and the seventh VAWR deployed in CODE-2 carried an integral sensor set for comparison. Although several VAWRs had minor problems, all but one VAWR in the two experiments returned useful scientific data.