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some theoretical expectations. Rather, have come from researchers using com- moored arrays must collect sustained the distribution of the current ? eld is puter models and satellite-based obser- time series. Their instrumentation and now broader—attributed to enhanced vations. And drifters, gliders, and ? oats mooring lines must be resilient. And eddy action. can provide snapshots. Yet there is no high-speed upper-ocean currents must

One knock-on effect is greater ex- substitute for hanging around in these be measured. For all these ocean-ob- change of water properties with coastal deep and energetic ? ows. serving requirements, Teledyne RDI waters. Such changes in the nutrient For scientists to see long-term trends ADCPs remain a uniquely relevant so- supply could affect regional ? sheries. and large-scale connections, these lution.

Agulhas System Climate Array (ASCA): 2015—present

Beginning in 2015, the Agulhas Sys- tem Climate Array (ASCA) occupies the same transect as ACT, near 34°S.

The project includes scientists from sev- eral nations. They aim to collect persis- tent observations of the Agulhas Current for at least ? ve years.

The ASCA array includes nine moor- ings reaching 200 km offshore. In deep water are seven tall moorings to 4500 m.

Closer to shore are two seabed moorings near 100 m depth. The latter use 300 kHz ADCPs whereas the deep moorings carry 75 kHz Long Ranger ADCPs.

Agulhas System Climate Array (ASCA): 2015—present

Beginning in 2015, the Agulhas Sys- tem Climate Array (ASCA) occupies the same transect as ACT, near 34°S.

The project includes scientists from sev- eral nations. They aim to collect persis- tent observations of the Agulhas Current for at least ? ve years.

The ASCA array includes nine moor- ings reaching 200 km offshore. In deep water are seven tall moorings to 4500 m.

Closer to shore are two seabed moorings near 100 m depth. The latter use 300 kHz ADCPs whereas the deep moorings carry 75 kHz Long Ranger ADCPs.

Looking Ahead

The in? uence of major ocean cur- rents on our living environment—from hurricanes to earth’s climate—is now more widely appreciated. Yet develop- ing this understanding has been—and remains—challenging.

A mix of methods is needed to clarify the long-term effects of global warming.

Moored arrays in major ocean currents provide an essential ingredient. Insights www.marinetechnologynews.com

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