Studies of Ocean Tides with Swath Altimetry

Principle Investigator: Edward Zaron (Oregon State University)

Co-Investigator(s): Richard Ray, Sam Kelly

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Our research will address fundamental questions concerning the coupling between tidal inertia-gravity waves and low-frequency ocean circulation. We will build on insights from our previous work, and from analysis of SWOT data, to develop new tide models with improved predictive skill. Our initial focus will be on using SWOT data to intercompare and then improve models of coastal, high-latitude, and Great Lakes tides. These are regions where existing tide models exhibit significant differences, and where SWOT data will have the greatest potential for providing improvements. Secondarily, we will build a 4D-Var data assimilation system to map the baroclinic tides and their time-evolution. By building this system we will test and expand our knowledge of tidal dynamics, and provide an important product to SWOT data users.