Drifting Buoys for Ocean Data Collection

Development of low cost drifting buoys is now to the point where they may be considered a proven tool for ocean data collection. Recent experiments in preparation for the First GARP Global Experiment have demonstrated lifetimes in excess of a year. An operational data processing and dissemination service will soon he available. Although collection of ocean current data continues to be of interest, buoys intended for other purposes are discussed, using examples from experiments conducted by the Canadian Ocean Data Systems project.