Researchers at AOML, NESDIS CoastWatch, and the University of Miami are currently exploring how the distribution of marine debris is affected by both ocean currents and wind. During a recent experiment, scientists deployed several prototype drifters in the Florida Current off the coast of Miami to simulate commonly found debris of varying weights and shapes. These drifters carry GPS transmitters that provide their location four times per day.
Long-term AOML Research Project Reaches Important Milestone
On October 15, 2015, the scientists, technicians, and engineers involved in the AOML Western Boundary Time Series (WBTS) project marked a milestone with the completion of the 100th successful dropsonde cruise in the Florida Current since the project’s inception in 2000.