Ocean Tracker Performance During Canadian Atlantic Storms Project (CASP)

A number of new, low cost tracking buoys were deployed during the Canadian Atlantic Storms Project (CASP) in an attempt to monitor the movement of the top meter of the ocean. The design was based on earlier research work done by and for scientists at the Bedford Institute of Oceanography. This paper will describe how the need for such an instrument was identified, what earlier research work was used and what design concepts were adhered to in its construction. Results of the CASP trials are reviewed. A brief technical evaluation of the design is presented, and the possibility of expanding the capabilities of the drifter is explored.