Research topics
The research topics covered by the members of OFyGA are the following:
Ocean mixing processes
Description: This line deals with the observation and modeling of mixing processes in the ocean. So far, studies have been carried out mainly in the case of the diapycnal mixing induced by the flow shear. However, it is intended to extend these studies to other mechanisms responsible for mixing as well as to analyze the role of the boundary layers.
Oceanography at singular regions
Description:
Part A: Field Oceanography. Physical Description of Meso and Sub-mesoscalar Structures
Responsible person: María de los Ángeles Marrero Díaz
This topic is responsible for the analysis and calibration of the physical data collected by CTD, XBT and Seasoar probes. With the data obtained, the analyzes of water masses are carried out and the different hydrographic environments are characterized, both at basin scale, and at meso and sub-mesoscale (upwelling fronts, filaments and ocean eddies). It is, therefore, a topic both for physical studies and support for interdisciplinary studies. Currently this topic is focused on the following unique regions: the Canary Basin (upwelling / Canary Current / Cape Verde front zone interaction region) and the western margin of the Antarctic Peninsula.
Part B: Spatio-temporal variability of oceanographic structures in singular regions
Responsible person: Borja Aguiar González
In this topic, the spatio-temporal variability of oceanographic structures is monitored, in singular regions, from the analysis of time series of historical data, mainly satellite data (SST, SSH), hydrographic data (CTD, XBT), velocities of the current (ADCP) and surface drifters. Currently, this topic focuses on the following regions: the Canary Basin, the South Indian Ocean and the western margin of the Antarctic Peninsula. Ocean circulation is analyzed both at basin and at mesoscale scales. Geostrophic velocities and the transports associated with these velocities are calculated from CTD, ADCP, and other data. The objective of this line is also to analyze coastal upwelling and their relationship with ocean circulation at basin and mesoscale scales.
Applied Geophysics
Description: In this line, all aspects of Applied Geophysics are treated. Currently we have instrumentation to research in the field of magnetometry. In the future it is expected to acquire instruments for gravimetric and seismic studies. The objective of this line is to carry out prospecting works for both scientific and business studies.
Coastal and estuarine pollution and circulation
Description: The objective of this line is the investigation of coastal circulation and its implications in the concentration of possible contaminants. This study is addressed both from observations and from models.
Oceanographic risk in the Canary Islands
Description: This line will focus on the evaluation of the oceanographic risk associated with the accident rate recorded on the beaches of the Canary Islands and coastal environments.
Ocean circulation at intermediate waters
Description: In this topic, work on water masses that circulate at intermediate levels around the Canary Islands, such as intermediate Antarctic water and Mediterranean water, as well as their possible interaction will be addressed.
Numerical ocean modeling
Description: It is the most recent topic in the group. The aim is to have a tool that complements the observational research work that has been carried out within OFyGA.
ANIMAL telemetry to MOnitor the CAnary current and the UPwelling system (ANIMAL MOCA-UP)
Description: This line of research focuses on monitoring the Canary Current and the upwelling system using marine animals instrumented with temperature, pressure and conductivity sensors..