The MR: a Meteorological Data Sensing, Recording and Telemetering Package for Use on Moored Buoys

Abstract

A new meteorological sensing, recording, and telemetering package based on digital data processing techniques has been developed for long-term (6-month) deployments on surface buoys moored in the ocean. Data are recorded on magnetic cassette tapes and telemetered via satellite and Service Argos. Sensors for measuring vector-averaged wind speed and direction, air and water temperature relative humidity, solar radiation, and barometric pressure were selected for accuracy and reliability. Except for relative humidity, performance of the sensors has been excellent. Results of ship-to-buoy comparisons of wind speed and air temperature sensors show agreement within the basic ship sensor accuracies, i.e., 0.1 m s?1 and 0.4°C.