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The NERC Sustained Observations

The NERC Sustained Observations

Denise Smythe-Wright

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10NERC Oceans 2025

Theme 1 Climate, circulation and sea level

Theme 2 Marine biogeochemical cycles

Theme 3 Shelf and coastal processes

Theme 4 Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning

Theme 5 Continental margins and deep ocean

Theme 6 Sustainable marine resources

Theme 8 Technology Development

Theme 9 Next generation ocean prediction

Theme 10 Sustained observations

Not all NERC laboratories are involved in every themehttp://www.oceans2025.org/publications.php

NERC Oceans 2025

Theme 1 Climate, circulation and sea level

Theme 2 Marine biogeochemical cycles

Theme 3 Shelf and coastal processes

Theme 4 Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning

Theme 5 Continental margins and deep ocean

Theme 6 Sustainable marine resources

Theme 8 Technology Development

Theme 9 Next generation ocean prediction

Theme 10 Sustained observations

Not all NERC laboratories are involved in every themehttp://www.oceans2025.org/publications.php

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10NERC Sustained ObservationsNERC Sustained Observations

SO 1 Atlantic Meridional Transect (PML, NOCS)

SO 2 Porcupine Abyssal Plain Ocean Observatory (NOCS)

SO 3 Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (NOCS, POL)

SO 4 The extended Ellett Line (NOCS, SAMS)

SO 5 Argo profiling float system (NOCS)

SO 6 Antarctic Circumpolar Current: transport and properties (NOCS, POL)

SO 7 UK contribution to GLOSS sea level network (S. Atlantic and Antarctic (POL)

[SO 8 Pride of Bilbao ferrybox (NOCS) - funded under EU grants]

SO 9 Climate-quality surface marine observations and products (NOCS)

SO 10 Western Channel Observatory (PML, MBA)

SO 11 Liverpool Bay Coastal Observatory (POL)

SO 12 Tiree Passage time series (SAMS)

SO 13 Arctic Shelf time series (SAMS)

SO 14 Long-term observations of marine mammal population dynamics (SMRU)

SO 15 Continuous Plankton Recorder Survey (SAHFOS)

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10NERC Sustained ObservationsNERC Sustained Observations

Aim To obtain knowledge on a wide range of

ecosystem properties and processes To provide long-term data sets To capture extreme or episodic events To play a role in the initialisation and

validation of models Provide underpinning knowledge for marine

stewardship and international assessments through Defra UKMMAS, UKGOOS, GMES

Aim To obtain knowledge on a wide range of

ecosystem properties and processes To provide long-term data sets To capture extreme or episodic events To play a role in the initialisation and

validation of models Provide underpinning knowledge for marine

stewardship and international assessments through Defra UKMMAS, UKGOOS, GMES

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10SO1 - Atlantic Meridional TransectSpecific objectives.

To collect hydrographic, chemical, ecological and optical data

on transects between the UK and the Falkland Islands. • Underway measurements (using towed

instruments and the onboard non-toxic surface seawater supply)

• Daily CTD depth profiles and water

sample collection to 1000m. Main deliverablesExtended time series (1995-2011) of physical structure, biogeochemical properties and planktonic ecosystems in the Atlantic Ocean, for use in development and validation of models related to the global carbon cycle

An accessible dataset through the BODC website (most data to be open access within 6-12 mo of each cruise), together with web-based data visualisation, and analysis of in situ and EO data.

PMLNOCS

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10AMT ParametersAMT Parameters

Parameter Methodology

Hydrodynamic characterisation (water masses, eddies, fronts and boundaries)

Vessel-mounted ADCP or towed undulating profiler (MVP or SeaSoar), also near real-time satellite images

Depth distributions of inorganic nutrients Standard auto-analytical and sensor techniques

Phyto- and zooplankton size characterisation for range 1 ｵm -10mm diameter

Optical- and video-based in-line instruments (FlowCam & LiZa)

Phytoplanton community abundance and composition HPLC analysis of pigments and matrix factorisation software (CHEMTAX)

Picoplankton characterisation Flow cytometry

Phytoplankton photo-physiological parameters and integrated water column primary production

14C uptake, photosynthesis-irradiance relationships, and a spectral bio-optical model

Photosynthetic responses and photophysiological properties of phytoplankton

Fast Repetition Rate Fluorometry (FRRF), a Satlantic Fluorescence Induction and Relaxation system (FIRe), photoprotective carotenoid measurements

Net community production Underway surface oxygen/argon ratios measured with a membrane inlet mass spectrometer, MIMS, system

Surface water and atmospheric pCO2 Automated infra-red gas analyser

Export rates and characterisation of exported material (for N and S oligotrophic gyres)

annual deployments of sediment traps with time-series collectors in the middle of both gyres

Apparent and inherent optical properties (including UV)

in situ profiling spectral-radiometers (Satlantic and TRIOS UV) and compared with satellite data.PML

NOCS

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10SO2 - Porcupine Abyssal Plain

Deep Ocean ObservatoryPAP is a fixed point sustained eulerian observatories comprising a variety of moorings and sensors.

Main ObjectiveTo make physical, chemical and biological observations of the full water column with sufficient temporal resolution and duration to detect environmental change on a variety of timescales eg hours to decades. To determine the effects of such changes on deep ocean ecosystem structure and function.

Main deliverables A time series of multidisciplinary data from an open ocean location in both real time and delayed modeDeep water downward particle flux.

Characteristics, abundance and biomass of epibenthic and infauna.

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NOCS

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10SO2 - Porcupine Abyssal Plain

Deep Ocean ObservatorySO2 - Porcupine Abyssal Plain

Deep Ocean Observatory

Measurements include • pCO2 • nitrate • water currents • CTD • phytoplankton concentration • particle concentration • downward particle flux • use of benthic time lapse cameras• repeated collection and analysis of benthic fauna during

research cruises

Data supported by transects carried out by AMT, CAVASSOO and CPR.

It considers the system as a whole from meteorology, upper ocean physics, upper ocean productivity, particle export, deep ocean flux and their effect on seabed communities and biogeochemistry.

NOCS

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10SO3 - Meridional Overturning

Circulation

Main Objectives

• To carry out cruise-based hydrographic measurements across the North Atlantic along 26.5N in 2009 and 2014 in order to

complement and test the Rapid/Rapid-Watch monitoring array.

• To thereby extend the time-series of high precision physical and chemical transoceanic measurements at this section to

58 years.

• To provide support for the Western Atlantic Variability Experiment (WAVE) array, at three sections across the US and Canadian continental slope between Cape Cod and the Grand Banks.

NOCS responsibility for 26.5N section; POL for WAVE array

Rapid mooring to continuously observe the Atlantic MOC and WAVE array to look at variability in Western Atlantic

Wave array

NOCSPOL

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Main deliverables

A cost efficient, effective monitoring system for the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC) at 26.5 ｰ N

A real time index of MOC strength and variability

A trans-Atlantic hydrographic section at 26.5 ｰ N to provide an independent estimate of the MOC.

Time series of ocean bottom pressure, temperature, and salinity, from the North Atlantic Deep Western Boundary Current region, north of the Gulf Stream.

Main deliverables

A cost efficient, effective monitoring system for the Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (MOC) at 26.5 ｰ N

A real time index of MOC strength and variability

A trans-Atlantic hydrographic section at 26.5 ｰ N to provide an independent estimate of the MOC.

Time series of ocean bottom pressure, temperature, and salinity, from the North Atlantic Deep Western Boundary Current region, north of the Gulf Stream.

SO3 - Meridional Overturning Circulation

NOCSPOL

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10SO4 - Extended Ellett LineAnnual full depth hydrographic section

between Scotland, Rockall and Iceland and mooring across the Wyville -Thompson Ridge.

Main Objectives

• To monitor the warm inflow from the North Atlantic into the Nordic Seas with annual occupations of a the ‘extended Ellett Line’ To establish how oceans west of UK are changing.

• To monitor the overflow across the Wyville-Thomson Ridge

using a moored current meter.

• To extend temporal coverage using gliders and floats.

• To extend ecosystem coverage through observations of the upper ocean biological community, focussing on biotic elements susceptible to change.

Original line since 1975Iceland since 1996

NOCSSAMS

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10SO4 - Extended Ellett LineSO4 - Extended Ellett Line

Measurements include

• CTD - T&S• nutrients• water currents • pCO2• phytoplankton concentration

Main deliverable

A time series of the evolution of the hydrography of the

northeast Atlantic, which will contribute greater understanding of the causes of any changes observed.

Data set available to the international community via BODCNOCSSAMS

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10SO5 - Argo Profiling System

The International Argo programme aims to instrument the entire ocean with autonomous profiling floats

UK Objectives

To continue to play leading role in developing Argo instrumentation

To ensure national and international data acquisition, calibration and delivery that facilities NERC science

Ensure UK contribution meets the standards set by the international programme

Support the deployment of new floats - exploited by NERC research programmes

http://www.coriolis.eu.org/ http://www.usgodae.org/argo/argo.html

NOCS

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10SO6 - Antarctic Circumpolar Current Main Objectives

To maintain an annual hydrographic section across the ACC at Drake Passage, based on measurements of temperature, salinity and currents, with the opportunity for additional biogeochemical measurements (e.g. relating to carbon system)

To provide datasets to test whether models produce the correct level of interannual variability

To maintain the ocean bottom pressure and temperature time series from Drake Passage.

To adapt the bottom pressure monitoring system to maximize the value of other observational programmes in the region.

Objective (i) addressed by NOCS; objectives (ii) – (iv) by POL.Data held by BODC

NOCSPOL

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10SO 7 - UK contribution to the

GLOSS sea level network South Atlantic and Antarctic

Specific objectives To make a major UK contribution to the construction of the global sea level network (GLOSS)

To take advantage of the UK-owned sites to provide scientific-quality data sets (some in near-real time) for use in operational oceanography and in oceanographic and climate research.

To provide relevant sea level data sets and products to the British Dependent Territories of the South Atlantic for local applications, especially in areas of economic importance.

POL

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10SO 7 - UK contribution to the

GLOSS sea level network South Atlantic and Antarctic

SO 7 - UK contribution to the GLOSS sea level network

South Atlantic and AntarcticMain deliverables

Integrationed sea level and/or sub-surface pressure every 15 min (increased to every minute at some locations) at Gibraltar, Ascension, St. Helena, Port Stanley, Vernadsky and Rothera Tristan da Cunha, Signy and South Georgia

Wave data (approx 1Hz sampling) and ancillary data sets (air and sea temperature, air pressure etc.) at each site.

Related necessary geodetic information (levelling data etc.) and metadata.

Data available in both near-real time mode (via GLOSS Fast Centre at Univ of Hawaii) for operational applications and effective error reporting, and in delayed, fully quality-controlled mode for long term scientific research (via BODC)

POL

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10P & O Pride of Bilbao ferry routeP & O Pride of Bilbao ferry route

~35 hrs~1000 kmEvery 3 days

Online “Web sensors”@ 1Hz Conductivity Temperature Chlorophyll-fluorescence@30secs O2 (start 2005)

pCO2 (mid 2005-7)

March –April 2007 testing of SWIRE-SNOMS gas exchange system (pC02)

Monthly water samplesFrom Feb 2003 NO3, Si, PO4, Chl a, Salinity, O2 (2004 -), Alkalinity,

TCO2 (2005-), pH (2007-)

Project started April 2002

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NOCS

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10SO9 - Climate-quality surface marine

observations and products

Provides the mechanism for integrating the increasing sources of historical and operational environmental data into the coherent datasets essential for understanding climate change.

Main Objectives

Developing climate quality datasets from long-term marine meteorological operational observations.

Reanalysis of satellite datasets and new methods of exploiting remotely sensed signals.

NOCS

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10SO9 - Climate-quality surface marine

observations and productsSO9 - Climate-quality surface marine

observations and products

Main deliverables

50 year surface in situ meteorological and flux dataset, presented on a monthly mean 1˚ area grid including bias correction, sampling and bias uncertainty estimates and full documentation.

20 year combined in situ and satellite surface meteorological and flux dataset (as above).

Published intercomparisons of in situ and remotely sensed SST, winds, waves and precipitation.

Calibrated, quality assured and documented satellite data and gridded products, incorporating new methods of quality control and estimation of uncertainty, including for sea surface height, waves, winds, salinity and precipitation.

Near real time availability of data productsNOCS

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10SO 10 - Western Channel

Observatory SO 10 - Western Channel

Observatory Specific objectives

To maintain and develop in situ measurements made at stations L4, L5, E1 and adjacent coasts in the western English Channel

To integrate these measurements with ecosystem modelling studies and Earth observation, facilitated by web-based GIS technology

PMLMBA

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10SO 10 Western Channel ObservatorySO 10 Western Channel Observatory

Meteorological - (temperature, humidity, pressure, wind speed and direction, rainfall; PAR, solar irradiance, aerosol loading)

Hydrography (vertical temperature and salinity profiles), optics (up- and down-welling irradiance; ac-9, VSF and bb6 for inherent optical properties)

FRRF and fluorometry, TSM, CDOM, PABS); nutrients, phytoplankton, pigments (carotenoids and chlorophylls), zooplankton/microzooplankton, HAB now-cast

Bottom fish assemblages and phenology; benthos; and SW intertidal time-series

RV Quest real-time along track measurements (telemetered temperature, salinity, attenuation, oxygen, spectral solar irradiance, pH and pCO2)http://www.westernchannelobservatory.org.uk/data.php

PMLMBA

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10SO 11 - Liverpool Bay Coastal

Observatory SO 11 - Liverpool Bay Coastal

Observatory Specific objectives To routinely monitor the northern Irish Sea.

To develop the synthesis of measurements and models in the coastal ocean to optimize measurement arrays and forecast products.

To drive forward shelf seas’ operational oceanography with the direct objective of improving the national forecasting capability, through links to NCOF. iv)

To exploit the long time-series of observations and model outputs, in order to identify the roles of climate and anthropogenic inputs on the coastal ocean’s physical and biological functioning

POL

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10SO 11 - Liverpool Bay Coastal

ObservatorySO 11 - Liverpool Bay Coastal

Observatory

High frequency ADCP, conductivity, temperature, turbidity and fluorescence

Cefas directional wavebuoy and Smartbuoy collecting surface properties including salinity, temperature, turbidity, nutrients, irradiance and chlorophyll);

Spatial survey (at 4-6 week intervals; vertical profiles of CTD, SPM, some bed sediment sampling and surface and bed nutrients, phytoplankton, zooplankton);

Birkenhead – Belfast ferry samples (at 5m depth; temperature, salinity, turbidity, chlorophyll);

Tide gauges (real-time data from gauges operated by MDHC and the UK tide gauge network);

Satellite imagery (weekly composite satellite data, AVHRR SST and ocean colour, via NEODAAS);

HF radar (phased array system measuring surface currents and waves

POL

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10SO12-Tiree Passage Time Series SO12-Tiree Passage Time Series

Mooring located at ~50 m water depth in the narrowest sector of the Tiree Passage, a SW-NE orientated strait between the Isle of Mull to the southeast and the Isles of Coll and Tiree to the northwest.

Specific objectives

To maintain the Tiree Passage time series on the western coast of Scotland as the longest moored time series of flow and temperature on the NW European continental shelf (since 1981). To extend the observations by addition of a fluorometer and deployment of an Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler.

SAMS

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10SO12-Tiree Passage Time SeriesSO12-Tiree Passage Time Series

Data

Hourly current, temperature and salinity measurements are made using recording current meters and salinity sensors at 20 m and 45m above the sea bed

www.mba.ac.uk/MECN/publications.htm#DCR).

SAMS

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10SO 13 - Arctic Shelf Time Series SO 13 - Arctic Shelf Time Series Single point mooring begun in 2002 in Kongsfjord, Svalbard at 250m water depth with temperature and salinity at three depths, ADCP, two sediment traps, and fluorimetery.

Specific objectives

To integrate the SO13 time series data with data collected at other moored observatories on Arctic shelves to present a pan-

Arctic view of seasonal response and long-term change.

SAMS

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10SO 14 - Long-term observations of

marine mammal population

dynamics

SO 14 - Long-term observations of marine mammal population

dynamics Specific objectives

Population surveys of seals and the coordination of information on the abundance of cetaceans in European waters.

Population monitoring

Demographic monitoring

Factors affecting survival in seal populations

Observation of seal diet

Observation of prey consumption

Observing at sea populationsSMRU

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10SO 15 - Continuous Plankton

Recorder Survey SO 15 - Continuous Plankton

Recorder Survey

Specific objectives To maintain the spatial and temporal integrity of the core North Atlantic survey

To provide a long-term baseline of the near-surface distribution, abundance and diversity of phyto- and zooplankton

http://www.sahfos.ac.uk/data.htm

The CPR survey uses ships of opportunity to tow, along their standard routes, machines at ~10m that sample the plankton on a band of silk.

Standard CPR tow routes sampled during 2004

SAHFOS

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