Ship based turbulence measurements under heavy seas : measurement, motion correction, and interpretation

Parameterizations of turbulent air-sea fluxes are most uncertain under high wind conditions where measurements are sparse and difficult to obtain. During the SEASAW cruises turbulence measurements were made under conditions of high winds and heavy seas: mean wind speeds up to 20 m/s, and significant wave heights in excess of 8.5 m, with individual waves of up to 17 m. Two separate turbulence system were installed at different locations on the foremast; both utilized Gill R3A sonic anemometers, but different motion/attitude sensing systems. Here we examine the measured turbulence, the performance of the motion correction systems, and the interpretation of turbulence measurements under such adverse conditions.