70
Coastal ocean observing buoys classified as ocean data acquisition systems
(ODAS) are multipurpose buoys bearing meteorological and oceanographic instrumentation. The main buoy components are the anchorage and buoyancy systems
and the payload (incorporating power system, sensors, data processing and storage
systems, and the telemetry system). Additionally, safety provisions include lights,
Fig. 3.2 ODAS buoy in preparation for deployment south of St. John, US Virgin Islands. Acoustic
and rotor anemometer and meteorological instruments, in addition to GPS and communications
antennae, are emplaced on the top railings and tower struts. An acoustic Doppler current profiler to
be mounted integral to the mooring chain is enclosed in a stainless steel cage alongside the buoy
base. A conductivity temperature/instrument is mounted horizontally on the right-hand base strut.
The cylindrical instrument and battery well protrudes above and below the pan-shaped yellow
buoyancy foam girdle. Solar photovoltaic panels provide electrical power
3 Platforms for Coastal Ocean Observing
Coastal ocean observing buoys classified as ocean data acquisition systems
(ODAS) are multipurpose buoys bearing meteorological and oceanographic instrumentation. The main buoy components are the anchorage and buoyancy systems
and the payload (incorporating power system, sensors, data processing and storage
systems, and the telemetry system). Additionally, safety provisions include lights,
Fig. 3.2 ODAS buoy in preparation for deployment south of St. John, US Virgin Islands. Acoustic
and rotor anemometer and meteorological instruments, in addition to GPS and communications
antennae, are emplaced on the top railings and tower struts. An acoustic Doppler current profiler to
be mounted integral to the mooring chain is enclosed in a stainless steel cage alongside the buoy
base. A conductivity temperature/instrument is mounted horizontally on the right-hand base strut.
The cylindrical instrument and battery well protrudes above and below the pan-shaped yellow
buoyancy foam girdle. Solar photovoltaic panels provide electrical power
3 Platforms for Coastal Ocean Observing