model nowcasts and forecasts
sound predictions and google earth
Check out the new Google Earth product developed by Applied Science Associates (ASA) using real-time ocean data from Sound Predictions.
Open the link using Google Earth and zoom into Prince William Sound.
See wind speed and ocean current forecasts from several data sources, and drifter simulations using model data compared to data from real drifters.
Sound Predictions: A Field Experiment in Prince William Sound
Two eventful weeks in Summer 2009
Podcasts now available
The COSEE NOW "Ocean Gazing" project includes 26 podcasts that explore the science of ocean observatories. Hosted and produced by Ari Daniel Shapiro, two of the podcasts focus on the Prince William Sound Field Experiment.
Download "The Prince's Predictions," Part I and Part II (MP3)
About the Field Experiment
Its purpose was to improve our ability to observe and forecast changes in Alaska's oceans
Sound Predictions is an Alaska Ocean Observing System project with multiple partners, without whom this work would not be possible. See list of partners.
Field experiment data were uploaded in near real-time, thanks to the efforts of the UAF School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences and the NASA Jet Propulsion Lab.
We deployed drifting buoys throughout the Sound to measure the speed and direction of surface currents, and to measure how well the model predicts ocean conditions.
We followed the tracks of buoys that mimic Coast Guard Search and Rescue targets and oil spill trajectories.
We deployed autonomous vehicles to collect data as they flew and swam the Sound.
- Sound Predictions blog
- Sound Predictions Press Release (PDF) and Factsheet (PDF)
- Read the Summer 2009 Newsletter featuring the Field Experiment (PDF)
- Download a brochure with details about the what, when, and why of the field experiment. (PDF)
Next Steps
Although the “official” Prince William Sound Field Experiment -- known as Sound Predictions 2009 -– is completed, in reality the project is far from over. The AOOS field team, the data team in Fairbanks, and modelers in California have been analyzing the data acquired during this unprecedented field exercise.
The team is preparing journal papers and symposium presentations, and meeting with stakeholder groups to help decide what pieces of the Prince William Sound observing system structure are critical to meeting future needs.
Preliminary Field Experiment results presented at the 2010 Alaska Marine Science Symposium
Prince William Sound researchers joined scientists from around the country at the Alaska Marine Science Symposium in Anchorage January 18-22 to present their work on the Prince William Sound Field Experiment. Ten PIs helped integrate the diverse components of the project in a 3 hour special session.
See a list of their presentations, most available for download.
The Alaska Ocean Observing System is building a network of observation platforms and forecast models. The goal of this network is to provide information products and tools to improve our understanding of Alaska’s ocean ecosystem. These products will help us to make better decisions about our use of the marine environment.