Using a fleet of slocum battery gliders in a regional scale coastal ocean observatory

Rutgers University is constructing the New Jersey Shelf Observing System (NJSOS), a regional-scale (300 km /spl times/ 300 km) observatory for the coastal ocean which includes the LEO15 site. Spatially extensive surface remote sensing systems (CODAR, satellites) are continuously collecting data in this region. However, only during the month of July in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 were extensive subsurface physical and optical data collected and only in the LEO15 vicinity. The July samplings were labor and boat intensive. Obtaining the subsurface data in the LEO15 area required the use of up to seven boats and manpower to collect, process and analyze the information. To make the collection of subsurface data in the NJSOS more efficient, less expensive and more complete both spatially and temporally, Rutgers University has worked with Webb Research Corporation on their development of the Slocum Glider autonomous underwater vehicles. Currently Rutgers owns a fleet of four Gliders that can be used individually or as a group to collect subsurface data in the observatory region.