Research and Logistical Support for the Office of Naval Research AcceleratedResearch Initiative on Marine Microlayer Processes

摘要

Organic sea surface films are indicators of both surface and underwater processeswhich influence the physics of the sea surface. The modulation of air-sea interfacial processes by these organic films are in turn detectable in a wide variety of active and passive remotely sensed imagery, and these films serve to highlight oceanic events of larger scale. A long-term goal is the interpretation of remotely sensed imagery based on sea surface truth obtained in this program. Aerial photography is conducted during multidisciplinary field experiments to document the film-modulated condition of the sea surface and provide imagery (sun-glint and other relevant viewing angles) for correlation with microlayer data provided by other program participants. In addition, in situ measurement of sea surface tension is performed simultaneously with the microlayer measurements to provide a surface chemical basis for understanding mechanisms by which physical effects are modified by organic films. This paper includes supporting aerial documentation of the condition of the sea surface. Aircraft flights were also used to guide other experiment participants to oceanic areas where important sea surface microlayer events were taking place.