Integration of Coastal Ocean Dynamics Application Radar (CODAR) and Short-Term Predictive System (STPS): Surface Current Estimates into the Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System (SAROPS)

摘要

The CODAR-based surface current prediction model (Short-Term Predictive System, STPS) previously demonstrated in Block Island Sound was extended to an existing long-range CODAR area in the Middle Atlantic Bight (MAB) and upgraded to incorporate the effects of wind forcing. Signal processing and data reduction refinements were also incorporated in the CODAR scheme. To test these improvements, conventional methods of determining SAR target drift (e.g. NOAA tidal data or climatological data) were compared to Self-Locating Datum Marker Buoy (SLDMB) trajectories and STPS generated trajectories in the MAB. Techniques were also developed to estimate the velocity variance, dispersion coefficient, and autocorrelation time scales necessary as input to random walk (RW) and random flight (RF) models from CODAR, STPS, and SLDMB data. An operational T&E was conducted to determine the accuracy and user-friendliness of incorporating CODAR and STPS information in the new SAROPS planning tool and Environmental Data Server framework.