Abstract:
The aim of this study was to test a wirewalking profiler, MMP (McLane Moored Profiler), in a drifting configuration to assess its use in turbulent conditions. The drifting design allows the instrument to move with the current, avoiding any drag induced tilt and to mimic a quasi-Lagrangian float. This retrieves spatial and temporal data to contribute insights that improve global ocean modelling, specifically in areas of high turbulence. The drifting MMP showed vibration from wave motion and from vortex shedding at profiling speeds less than 0.25 m/s. The surface floats experienced wind forcing, changing the motion of the drifting profiler in comparison to the current. Overall, the platform is suitable for indirect measurements of ocean turbulence but exhibits too much vibration for microscale measurements. The instruments onboard the drifting MMP logging at high resolution in close proximity to one another, make it an ideal platform for predicting bulk turbulence parameters.