Observing The Oceans In Real Time

This book provides contributions from leading experts on the integration of novel sensing technologies to yield unprecedented observations of coupled biological, chemical, and physical processes in the ocean from the macro to micro scale. Authoritative entries from experts around the globe provide first-hand information for oceanographers and researchers looking for solutions to measurement problems. Ocean observational techniques have seen rapid advances in the last few years and this book addresses the need for a single overview of present and future trends in near real time and real time. First the past, present and future scenarios of ocean observational tools and techniques are elucidated. Then this book divides into three modes of ocean observations: surface, upper ocean and deep ocean. This is followed by data quality and modelling. Collecting a summary of methods and applications, this book provides first-hand information for oceanographers and researchers looking for solutions to measurement problems. This book is also suitable for final year undergraduate students or beginning graduate students in ocean engineering, oceanography and various other engineering students (such as Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, and Bioengineering) who are interested in specializing their skills towards modern measurements of the ocean.

The proliferation of harmful phytoplankton in marine ecosystems can cause massive fish kills, contaminate seafood with toxins, impact local and regional economies and dramatically affect ecological balance. Real-time observations are essential for effective short-term operational forecasting, but observation and modelling systems are still being developed. This volume provides guidance for developing real-time and near real-time sensing systems for observing and predicting plankton dynamics, including harmful algal blooms, in coastal waters. The underlying theory is explained and current trends in research and monitoring are discussed.Topics covered include: coastal ecosystems and dynamics of harmful algal blooms; theory and practical applications of in situ and remotely sensed optical detection of microalgal distributions and composition; theory and practical applications of in situ biological and chemical sensors for targeted species and toxin detection; integrated observing systems and platforms for detection; diagnostic and predictive modelling of ecosystems and harmful algal blooms, including data assimilation techniques; observational needs for the public and government; and future directions for research and operations.

Coastal Ocean Observing Systems provides state-of-the-art scientific and technological knowledge in coastal ocean observing systems, along with guidance on establishing, restructuring, and improving similar systems. The book is intended to help oceanographers understand, identify, and recognize how oceanographic research feeds into the various designs of ocean observing systems. In addition, readers will learn how ocean observing systems are defined and how each system operates in relation to its geographical, environmental, and political region. The book provides further insights into all of these problem areas, offering lessons learned and results from the types of research sponsored and utilized by ocean observing systems and the types of research design and experiments conducted by professionals specializing in ocean research and affiliated with observing systems. Includes international contributions from individuals working in academia, management, and industry Showcases the application of science and technology in coastal observing systems Highlights lessons learned on partnerships, governance structure, data management, and stakeholder relationships required for successful implementation Provides insight into how ocean research transfers to application and societal benefit

As the importance of the oceans to society grows, so does the need to understand their variation on many temporal and spatial scales. This need to understand ocean change is compelling scientists to move beyond traditional expeditionary modes of investigation. Observing systems will enable the study of processes in the ocean basins over varying timescales and spatial scales, providing the scientific basis for addressing important societal concerns such as climate change, natural hazards, and the health and viability of living and non-living resources along our coasts and in the open ocean. The book evaluates the scientific and technical readiness to move ahead with the establishment of a research-driven ocean observatory network, and highlights outstanding issues. These issues include the status of planning and development, factors that affect the timing of construction and installation, the cost and requirements for maintenance and operations, needs for sensor development and data management, the impact on availability of ships and deep submergence facilities, and the role of research-based observatories within national and international operational ocean observing systems being developed and implemented.