Abstract:

Satellite-derived Sea Surface Temperature (SST) and in-situ SST data, from the Pathfinder project, are blended using the parameter matrix objective analysis algorithm of Mariano and Brown (1992). Global SST fields, for the years 1986-1994, are calculated at 18 km and 2 day resolution. The estimation error of this data product, as a function of longitude, latitude, time, and SST is presented. The average global bias error for SST is zero but there are some regional and temporal biases. The root-mean-square estimation error is less than 0.5 degrees.

Ship-drift based global Sea Surface Velocity (SSV) fields are objectively mapped at one degree in longitude/latitude and one month resolution. The historical ship-drift based SSV estimates are compared to SSV determined from the modern WOCE surface drifters. Differences between the two velocity estimates are analyzed as a function of wind speed.

The seasonal and annual average global SST and SSV fields are also computed. A description of the seasonal variability of the major ocean surface current systems is presented.

Reference:

Global Sea Surface Temperature and Currents. E.H. Ryan, A.J. Mariano, D.B. Olson, R.H. Evans, 1996 Fall AGU Meeting, Eos, Transactions, AGU, 77 (46), November 12, 1996, (OP22A-16).

Links:
http://www.agu.org/meetings/fm96op.html
http://www.agu.org/cgi-bin/wais?a=OP22A-16