Publication Date:
2017-04-04
Description:
The impact of ARGO float trajectory assimilation on the quality of ocean analyses is studied by
means of an operational oceanographic model implemented in the Mediterranean Sea and a 3D-var
assimilation scheme. For the first time, both ARGO trajectories and vertical profiles of temperature
and salinity (TS) together with satellite altimeter data of sea level anomaly (SLA) are assimilated to
produce analyses for short term forecasts. The study period covers three months during winter 2005
when four ARGO trajectories were present in the northwestern Mediterranean Sea. The scheme is
first assessed computing the misfits between observations and model forecast and analysis. The
misfit statistics appear improved for float trajectories, while they are not degraded for the other
assimilated variables (TS profiles and SLA). This indicates that the trajectory integration is
consistent with the other components of the assimilation system, and provides new information on
horizontal pressure gradients. Comparisons between analyses obtained with and without trajectory
assimilation suggest that trajectory assimilation can impact on the description of boundary currents
and their instabilities, as well as mesoscale activity at regional scales. Changes are depicted by
intermediate water mass redistributions, mesoscale eddy relocations and net transport modulations.
These impacts are detailed and assessed considering historical and simultaneous in-situ datasets.
The results motivate the integration of ARGO trajectories in the operational Mediterranean
Forecasting System.
Description:
In press
Description:
1.8. Osservazioni di geofisica ambientale
Description:
JCR Journal
Description:
open
Keywords:
ARGO float trajectory
;
Forecasting System
;
03. Hydrosphere::03.01. General::03.01.05. Operational oceanography
Repository Name:
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV)
Type:
article
Permalink
