NIB MBS HF radar - European Marine Observation and Data Network Physics
Original (non-English) name
Acronym
NIB MBS HF radar - EMODnet Physics
Citation
Abstract
HF radar represents a new tool for waves and surficial currents assessment as well as a potential resource for monitoring the impact of wave energy on the marine environment. Although the technology we use to measure ocean currents is typically called "High-Frequency Radar" or "HF Radar", a more accurate name would be the "HF Radio". Ocean current transmitting antennas operate at similar frequencies to broadcast radio and TV, but at much lower power levels (0.1% or less). The transmitted energy, comparable to the power of a household light bulb, is harmless to humans and animals. Besides measuring waves and currents this technology offers the application of the results to multiple fields of marine activities. These measurements in Near real Time (NRT) can serve as an excellent monitoring tool for oil spill movements once they occur as well as in search and rescue operations. Furthermore, the measurements can be of great use for fishermen and tourism activities. Co-financed by the IPA ADRIATIC (EU) project ”Strengthening common reaction capacity to fight sea pollution of oil, toxic and hazardous substances in Adriatic Sea – HAZADR” (http://www.hazadr.eu/) two HF radar systems WERA were set up along the coast of the Gulf of Trieste. The National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station (NIB) in cooperation with the Slovenian Environment Agency (ARSO) placed a 12 channel system in the city of Piran (Slovenia), while the Istituto Nazionale di Oceanografia e di Geofisica Sperimentale (OGS) set up its system in Aurisina (Italy). Working in pairs thus they cover the Gulf of Trieste and the Bay of Piran as well. The NRT results are available to the public, local stakeholders and the scientific society in a graphical and digital form.