Characterization of OSCR HF radar data in Monterey Bay.

Abstract

A 53-hour long record of surface current data from the OSCR HF radar system was gathered over Monterey Bay on 6-8 May, 1995. In this study, OSCR data is evaluated with regard to semi-diurnal (M2) and diurnal (K1) tidal period fluctuations, the seabreeze, seabreeze influenced flow, and both standard and cannonical-day mean flow patterns. The OSCR data is considered on its own and in comparison to similar data types previously gathered by CODAR, a previously established Monterey Bay HF radar system. Two of three CODAR sites were co- located with the two OSCR sites. Internal wave influence is observed in the M2 tidal constituent analysis and the seabreeze greatly influences fluctuations of the K1 tidal period. Results from analysis of OSCR data replicated or reinforced data and results from the CODAR system. Initial OSCR data appears not to have been significantly affected by possible distortion of the phased-array beam patterns. However, contamination of OSCR returns by simultaneous activation of the CODAR systems is apparent in the data.