Networking multiple HF radar systems with common coverage overlap

Two older NOAA pulse-Doppler CODAR systems at Moss Landing and Monterey, CA have been providing real-time surface-current map coverage of Monterey Bay since 1992. In July 1994, this configuration was extended. The older CODAR at Monterey has been replaced by a new lower frequency, longer-range SeaSonde. SeaSondes have been brought on line at Santa Cruz and Granite Canyon, South of Monterey. This paper describes the operation of the multi-system network. Overlapping coverage between at least two systems is required to produce a total horizontal current vector, as each unit can measure only the vector component at any point that is radial to the radar. More systems results in greater coverage, accuracy and a more complex operation. The surface currents provide boundary conditions for numerical modeling, giving three-dimensional models of ocean currents.