Gulf Stream Recirculation Experiment (GUSREX) and line experiment SOFAR float data, 1980-1982

Abstract

Thirty-nine neutrally buoyant SOFAR floats were tracked in the western North Atlantic at depths of 700 m and 2000 m. These floats were launched in an effort to measure the deep current structure of the Gulf Stream and its recirculation near 55°W. Three separate deployments were made in April and October 1980 and July 1981. The floats were tracked by means of moored autonomous listening stations. The basic data consist of float trajectories, and temperature, pressure, and velocity measurements along the trajectories. This report describes the GUSREX experiment and instrument performance. It presents plots illustrating the horizontal structure and scales of the general circulation in the Gulf Stream and its recirculation for the period October 1980 to May 1982.