An electromagnetic method for measuring the velocities of ocean currents from a ship under way

Abstract

During the past four years a deliberate effort has been made at the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution to devise methods of kinematic observation generally suited to the needs of oceanographers. One result of this work, the electromagnetic method, has been brought from the experimental stage to one of useful maturity. Many of the theoretical potentialities of the method are still to be explored and developed. Nevertheless it seems likely that this remaining work may be done more soundly if present developments of the theory and instrumentation are made available for use and evaluation by, others. These studies in methods of kinematic observation have been supported mainly under the provisions of Bureau of Ships Contract NObs-2083, and Office of Naval Research Contract N6onr-277-1. This support and the assistance of the Naval Ordnance Laboratory, the Hydrographic Office (Oceanographic Division), the United States Coast Guard, and the David Taylor Model Basin of the United States Navy is gratefully acknowledged.