The
Skin Depth Experimental Profiler (SkinDeEP)
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| Schematic
of SkinDeEP showing principal components of instrument. |
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The
Skin Depth Experimental Profiler (SkinDeEP) is an autonomous, self-contained,
hydrodynamic instrument capable of making repeated, high-resolution profiles
of temperature and conductivity within the ocean’s upper decameter.
SkinDeEP data is used in the study of the ocean surface structure and air-sea
exchange processes.
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| Images
of SkinDeEP emerging from below the surface during a Mediterranean
cruise. The float to which it was attached is an Orbcomm locator. |
Autonomous
profiling operation is accomplished through SkinDeEP’s ability to change
its density: positive buoyancy is achieved by pumping air from inside the
body of the profiler into an external, neoprene, inflatable sleeve; the
instrument sinks when the sleeve is deflated by returning the air to the
interior. The sensors are mounted some distance from the top endcap and
data are recorded only during the ascending phase of the profile. This minimizes
disruption caused by the presence of the instrument. Both temperature and
conductivity are measured with resolutions in the submillimeter and millimeter
range, respectively.
More on SkinDeEP participation in SAGE cruise
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Introduction 
