Expressions of Intent for International Polar Year 2007-2008 Activities

Expression of Interest Details

PROPOSAL INFORMATION

Western Arctic Currents Measurements  (WACuM)

Outline
Coverage of the Arctic Ocean by in situ observations is still very poor. Especially there is a lack of see currents measurements, which are necessary for the circulation description and numerical models validation, which is particularly important in context of the predicted disappearing of the Arctic Ocean summer ice coverage within a few decades or less. In 2004 oceanographer from Institute of Oceanology Polish Academy of Sciences (IOPAS) joined the 200416 cruise of CCGS Louis S. St-Laurent, conducted in frames of the Joint Western Arctic Climate Studies project. Measurements by means of the Lowered Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler (LADCP) were performed. It was the first profiling of sea currents from the surface to bottom in the Canadian Archipelago and Canada Basin. The preliminary data are very interesting, obtained results together with hydrological data give synoptic picture of Canada Basin circulation. We are going to continue this kind of measurements in frames of the IPY. Proposed activity is: 1. Participation of oceanographers from Institute of Oceanology Polish Academy of Sciences in cruises conducted in frames of the JWACS project and other international cruises performed at the Arctic Ocean. During cruises we will continue our synoptic LADCP measurements; 2. Data processing, linking results from various sources (LADCP, hydrology, moorings, satellite altimetry, models) to obtain synoptic pictures of the Canadian Basin circulation; 3. Analysis of obtained and historical data to investigate processes controlling currents in the Canadian Basin and its changes.

What significant advance(s) in relation to the IPY themes and targets can be anticipated from this project?
Theme 1: Improved description of the Western Arctic Ocean circulation; Theme 1: Analysis of historical data and modelled fields improve quantification of circulation variability; Theme 3: Calibration the model by comparison with observations helps in identification of teleconnections with other regions; Theme 4: Using modern technologies as LADCP in observations. We anticipate using improved, very high resolution model results. Complex approach to process analysis. Theme 5: Beaufort Gyre is vantage point for the entire Arctic, investigations of changes of its circulation will help to understand factors controlling change in the polar environment.

What international collaboration is involved in this project?
Collaboration with oceanographers from Canada (IOS), Japan (JAMSTEC), USA (NPS) and other.

FIELD ACTIVITY DETAILS

Geographical location(s) for the proposed field activities:
Canadian Archipelago, Arctic Ocean (Beaufort Sea, Canadian Basin)

Approximate timeframe(s) for proposed field activities:
Arctic: 04/2007 – 10/2007      04/2008 – 10/2008      
Antarctic: n/a

Significant facilities will be required for this project:
Ice-breaker, ice strengthened research shipProject will be conducted during cruises performed in frames of the IPY. Measurements may be conducted during standard CTD casts, 1-2 places for scientists from IOPAS are requested at ships working in frames of JWACS projects or other ships of opportunity.

Will the project leave a legacy of infrastructure?
No

How is it envisaged that the required logistic support will be secured?
Consortium
Another national polar operator
National agency
Commercial operator

Has the project been "endorsed" at a national or international level?
Accepted by Polish National Committee for IPY 2007-2008

PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND STRUCTURE

Is the project a short-term expansion (over the IPY 2007-2008 timeframe) of an existing plan, programme or initiative or is it a new autonomous proposal?
Exp

The project is a natural continuation of collaboration between IOPAS and Joint Western Arctic Climate Study project begun in 2004. It is also continuation of ongoing collaboration with the NPS Arctic Modelling Group.

How will the project be organised and managed?
Oceanographers from IOPAS will join cruises conducted in frames of JWACS project. IOPAS equipment will be used. Participation in meetings and workshops is anticipated.

What are the initial plans of the project for addressing the education, outreach and communication issues outlined in the Framework document?
Help in communication of oceanographers from Poland, Canada, Japan and USA. Common works at sea (data acquisition) and with results (visiting).

What are the initial plans of the project to address data management issues (as outlined in the Framework document?
Data will be provided to JWACS database and other database created for IPY activities.

How is it proposed to fund the project?
Mostly national founds, support for communication is requested.

Is there additional information you wish to provide?
None

PROPOSER DETAILS

Dr Waldemar Walczowski
Institute of Oceanology Polish Academy of Sciences
Powstancow Warszawy 55
Sopot
81-712
Poland

Tel: (+48 58) 551-72-81
Mobile: (+48) 501 359 415
Fax: (+48 58) 551-21-30
Email:

Other project members and their affiliation