Observation of sub-mesoscale coupling at high resolution
The scientific objectives of the OSCAHR (Observing Submescale Coupling At High Resolution) project are to characterise a dynamic submesoscale structure and to study its influence on the distribution of biogenic elements and on the structure and dynamics of the first trophic levels associated with it.
Our methodology includes the use of new observation platforms for sampling the surface layer of the ocean at a high spatial and temporal frequency. In particular, an MVP (Moving Vessel Profiler) is being deployed with CTD, Fluorescence and LOPC (Laser Optical Particle Counter) sensors, and a new version of the automated flow cytometer is being installed for real-time, high-throughput sampling of phytoplankton functional groups, from microphytoplankton to tocyanobacteria (including Prochlorococcus).
Two sources of seawater were used in the OSCAHR: in addition to the surface water intake on board, a new pumping system was developed and tested to sample the upper water column at a resolution of one metre.
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