Satellite scatterometer (NSCAT) studies of ocean surface stress and drag coefficients using a direct model

This study is evaluating the accuracy of the sea surface friction velocity derived using a new model function that operates directly on the NSCAT scatterometer normalized radar cross section (NRCS) measurements. This NRCS data is colocated with numerous NDBC buoys (within /spl plusmn/0.5 deg latitude and longitude) and is being processed using the new FASINEX/Weissman model to determine the friction velocity directly. One method of validation of these estimates involves comparisons with friction velocity estimates derived from data collected by the buoys. This was conducted at the numerous locations; Atlantic and Pacific coastlines, and within the Gulf of Mexico. In addition it was possible to derive estimates of the surface drag coefficient, with the use of the buoy winds, U/sub 10N/, and the scatterometer u*. This permitted the study of the dependence of this drag coefficient on wind speed in these different regions, which is producing unexpected results.