A novel coastal ocean found by using a vessel-towed balloon equipped with a thermography

2014 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 25610141
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Challenging Exploratory Research
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Meteorology/Physical oceanography/Hydrology
• Research Institution: Kyushu University (2014); Ehime University (2013)
• Principal Investigator: ISOBE ATSUHIKO 九州大学, 応用力学研究所, 教授 (00281189)
• Project Period (FY): 2013-04-01 – 2015-03-31
• Keywords: バルーン空撮 / 熱赤外画像 / 沿岸海洋前線 / 渦構造

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We attempt to establish a “low-altitude” remote sensing system using a balloon equipped with a thermography. The field surveys were carried out at Iyo-nada in August 2013, and at Genkai-nada in September 2014. The balloon was towed by research vessels in keeping the altitude of about 100-200 m. The infrared images taken by this balloon photography well captured oceanic fronts, and tongue-like meanders developed along the front with an interval of around 10 m. In addition, the appearance of micro-scale eddies (patchiness of warm water) and its migration were both successfully observed.

Free Research Field

海洋物理学