Publication Date:
2017-04-04
Description:
The impact of ARGO 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 together with
satellite data 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. It is shown that their integration is consistent with the other components of the
assimilation system, and it contributes to refine the model error structure with new information on
horizontal pressure gradients. So the analysis benefits of a more accurate description of the
boundary currents and their instabilities that drive the mesoscale activity of regional circulations.
As a consequence, the trajectory assimilation remotely and significantly influences the basin scale
circulation. Changes can be depicted by intermediate water mass redistributions, mesoscale eddy
relocations or net transports modulations. These impacts are detailed and assessed considering
historical and contemporary datasets. The obtained qualitative and quantitative agreements motivate
the integration of ARGO trajectories in the operational Mediterranean Forecasting System.
Description:
Submitted
Description:
3.11. Oceanografia Operativa
Description:
JCR Journal
Description:
open
Keywords:
ARGO trajectories
;
Western Mediterranean circulation
;
03. Hydrosphere::03.01. General::03.01.05. Operational oceanography
Repository Name:
Istituto Nazionale di Geofisica e Vulcanologia (INGV)
Type:
manuscript
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