Investigation and monitoring of the sea surface state using a network of iniature lagrangian buoys

by

A.S. Mironov

Branch of Institute of Natural and Technical Systems, RF, Sochi, Kurortny Av., 99/1

E-mail: alexey.s.mironov@gmail.com

УДК 502.3, 551.504.54                                                  

DOI: 10.33075/2220-5861-2025-4-59-70

EDN: https://elibrary.ru/obgyqj

Abstract:

The paper presents the MELODI system of autonomous drifting buoys developed for operational monitoring of upper ocean parameters. The system provides continuous registration of wave characteristics, sea surface temperature, and drift parameters, with near real-time data transmission via the Iridium satellite network. The buoy structure is made of biodegradable PBS polymer and is equipped with a multi-frequency GNSS receiver, inertial sensors, and a solar power system, ensuring long-term autonomous operation and high measurement accuracy. The buoy is fitted with an onboard computing system that performs preliminary data analysis, calculation of wave spectra, and data compression prior to transmission. The measurement platform is designed for calibration and validation of data from the SWOT, CFOSAT, Sentinel-1, Sentinel-3, and Sentinel-6 satellite missions, as well as for verification of numerical ocean state models. The technology was tested during the Ocean Training Course 2025 campaign under the auspices of ESA and CNES, confirming the efficiency of the developed system for creating distributed networks of next-generation in-situ oceanographic observations.

Keywords: drifting buoys, ocean monitoring, in situ measurements, satellite validation measurements, wave spectral characteristics, Lagrangian measurements

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