FASINEX moored current meter array data report including WHOI meteorologically instrumented surface moorings (F2-845, F4-846, F6-847. F8-848. F10-849) and WHOI long term subsurface moorings (F1-829, F12-830)

Abstract

The Frontal Air-Sea Interaction Experiment (FASINEX) examined air-sea interaction in the vicinity of sea surface temperature fronts in the Subtropical Convergence Zone (STCZ). Mooring measurements were made from five surface, four Profiling Current Meter (PCM) and two longer duration subsurface moorings. The surface and PCM moorings, which made up the FASINEX central array were set in January 1986 and remained on station for six months. The two outlying subsurface moorings, set 90 miles south and 30 miles north of the central array were deployed in October 1984 and were recovered with the central array moorings in June 1986. The surface moorings collected oceanographic and meteorological data, using a 3-meter instrumented discus buoy and eight to ten Vector Measuring Current Meters (VMCMs) and Vector Averaging Current Meters (VACMs). The surface buoy carried a Vector Measuring Wind recorder (VAWR) and a Meteorological Recorder (MR) which measured wind speed and direction, sea surface temperature (SST), air temperature, insolation, barometric pressure and relative humidity. The MR also transmitted meteorological and engineering data via ARGOS. The VMCMs and VACMs, placed from 10 to 4000 m, measured oceanic velocities and temperatures. The subsurface moorings measured oceanic velocities and temperature from 160 to 4060 m, carrying a total of seven VACMs and a WOTAN (Wind Observations Through Ambient Noise). This report presents meteorological and oceanographic data from the seven W.H.O.I. moorings, with major emphasis on the surface mooring data. Details of the moored array and a statement of data return and quality are also included.