IASCO

During the EE9 SKIM Phase A/B1 study, a dedicated campaign was implemented, deploying a number of instruments aboard aircrafts and ships, a mooring, and one of the most extensive surface drifter campaigns conducted in Europe. These measurements were used to demonstrate and verify the measurement technique of SKIM. However, due to the compressed schedule of the EE9 Fast Track implementation approach, only a focussed and simplified analysis of the data sets collected was possible.

The IASCO study is focused on a full interpretation and analysis of SKIM campaign observations collected during the joint DRIFT4SKIM and KuROS4SKIM campaigns to further develop and improve retrieval of Doppler derived waves and TSCV. In addition, the study will support future European campaigns coordinated by CNES in 2020 for CFOSAT, by providing a complementary analysis of TSCV.

IASCO will make use of simulation tools developed during the EE9 SKIM Phase A/B1 (e.g. the SKIM L2 SKIMulator system and RSSS simulator). The primary output will be a definitive reprocessing and reanalysis of all campaign data collected during the SKIM Phase A/B1 focused on satellite waves and TSCV, dedicated simulations tuned to the campaign data using SKIM simulation and other tools and a series of journal publications reporting the results obtained. Particular focus on the more challenging retrieval of TSCV in the presence of SSH gradients and when in close proximity to coasts or sea ice edge (where wave Doppler determination/separation is more of a challenge due to the modified wave field in these areas) will be provided.

Against this background, the aim of IASCO is:

To verify Doppler derived estimates of TSCV, waves and their inter-relationships using campaign measurements and numerical simulations.

The Objectives for the IASCO study are:

  1. Reprocess and quality control all campaign measurements and supporting data sets from the DRIFT4SKIM and KuROS4SKIM campaigns.
  2. Design and implement numerical simulations for the DRIFT4SKIM and KuROS4SKIM campaigns.
  3. Create a documented and quality controlled database of all campaign measurements, simulation results and supporting data sets from the DRIFT4SKIM and KuROS4SKIM campaigns.
  4. Refine wave and TSCV retrievals based on campaign data and numerical simulations for the DRIFT4SKIM and KuROS4SKIM campaigns.
  5. In collaboration with other Agencies (e.g. CNES), support additional campaigns dedicated to investigating Doppler derived TSCV and waves in 2020/2021.
  6. Prepare and submit at least five peer-reviewed journal articles based on the work of IASCO.
  7. Promote the IASCO study outcomes at scientific and other international meetings and via web/social media communication tools.