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DUDLEY  KNOX  LIBRARY 
NAVAL  POSTGRADUATE  SCHOOL 
MONTEREY,  CALIFORNIA   3943 


AVAL  POSTGRADUATE  SC 

Monterey,  California 


L 


"T"  1 


DEVELOPMENT  OF 

A  MICROCOMPUTER  COUPLED  ATMOSPHERIC 

AND 

OCEANIC 

BOUNDARY  LAYER  PRED] 

by 

Gary  Lee  Tarbet 
December,  1983 

XTION  MODEL 

Thesis 

Advisor: 

Kenneth  Davidson 

Approved  for  public  release,  distribution  unlimited 


T 218034 


SECURITY  CLASSIFICATION  OF  THIS  PACE  (When  Date  Entered) 


DUDLEY  KNOX  LIBRARY 


REPORT  DOCUMENTATION  PAGE 


SEAD  INSTRUCTIONS 
BEFORE  COMPLETING  FORM 


I.     REPORT  NUMBER 


2.  GOVT  ACCESSION  NO 


3.      RECIPIENT'S  CATALOG   NUMBER 


4.     TITLE  ( end  Subtitle) 

Development  of  a  Microcomputer  Coupled 
Atmospheric  and  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer 
Prediction  Model 


5.     TYPE  OF   REPORT  4   PERIOD  COVERED 

Master's  Thesis 
December  1983 


6.  PERFORMING  ORG.  REPORT  NUMBER 


7.  AUTHORS 

Gary  Lee  Tarbet 


8.     CONTRACT  OR  GRANT  NUM8ERC*; 


»      PERFORMING  ORGANIZATION  NAME  ANO  AOORESS 

Naval  Postgraduate  School 
Monterey,  California  93943 


10.     PROGRAM  ELEMENT.  PROJECT,   TASK 
AREA  4   WORK  UNIT  NUMBERS 


II.     CONTROLLING  OFFICE  NAME  ANO  ADDRESS 

Naval  Postgraduate  School 
Monterey,  California  93943 

14.     MONITORING   AGENCY  NAME   4    AOORESSf//  ditierent  from  Controlling  Oltlce) 


12.     REPORT   DATE 

December,   1983 


13.     NUMBER  OF   PAGES 
5; 


15.     SECURITY   CLASS,   (o!  thle  report) 


15«.     DECLASSIFICATION/  DOWNGRADING 
SCHEDULE 


IS.     DISTRIBUTION  STATEMENT  (cl  thle  Report) 

Approved  for  public  release,  distribution  unlimited 


17.     DISTRIBUTION  STATEMENT  (ot  the  mbetrmct  entered  In  Block  20,  It  dlllerent  from  Report) 


18.     SUPPLEMENTARY  NOTES 


19.     KEY  WOROS  (Continue  on  revert*  etde  It  necaeeary  end  Identity  by  block  number) 

Marine  Atmospheric  Boundary  Layer,  MABL,  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer,  OBL 


20.     ABSTRACT  (Continue  on  reveree 

A  coupled  Marine  Atmo 
(OBL)  model  is  develo 
models  respectively, 
computer  with  emphasi 
when  feedback  between 
casts.  The  sensitivi 
Light  wind  situations 
predict  is  investigat 
and  wind. speed  which 


elde  It  necaeeary  and  Identity  by  block  number) 

spheric  Boundary  Layer  (MABL)  and  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer 
ped  using  the  Naval  Postgraduate  School  and  Garwood 

All  coding  is  done  on  the  Hewlett-Packard  9845  micro- 
s  on  ease  of  use.   The  -model  is  used  to  explore  cases 

the  boundary  layers  significantly  influences  model  fore- 
ty  of  the  model  to  slight  input  variations  is  explored. 

where  stratus  or  fog  formation  is  extremely  difficult  to  ! 
ed .  Cases  covered  include  variations  in  mixed  layer  depth 
produces  significantly  different  forecasts  from  the 


do  ,; 


FORM 
AN  73 


1473  EDITION  OF    1   NOV  «3  IS  OBSOLETE 

S'N  0102-  IF-  014-6601 


SECURITY  CLASSIFICATION  OF  THIS  PAGE  (When  Oete  Enter* 


Approved  for  public  release,  distribution  unlimited 


Development  of  a  Microcomputer  Coupled  Atmospheric  and 
Oceanic  Boundary  Layer  Prediction  Model 


by 


Gary  Lee  Tarbet 
Lieutenant  Commander,  United  States  Navy 
B.S.,  University  of  Utah,  1975 


Submitted  in  partial  fulfillment  of  the 
requirements  for  the  degree  of 


MASTER  OF  SCIENCE  IN  METEOROLOGY  AND  OCEANOGRAPHY 


from  the 

NAVAL  POSTGRADUATE  SCHOOL 
December,  1983 


ABSTRACT 

A  coupled  Marine  Atmospheric  Boundary  Layer  (MABL)  and 
Oceanic  Boundary  Layer  (OBL)  model  is  developed  using  the 
Naval  Postgraduate  School  and  Garwood  models  respectively. 
All  coding  is  done  on  the  Hewlett-Packard  9845  microcomputer 
with  emphasis  on  ease  of  use.  The  model  is  used  to  explore 
cases  when  feedback  between  the  boundary  layers  significantly 
influences  model  forecasts.  The  sensitivity  of  the  model  to 
slight  input  variations  is  explored.  Light  wind  situations 
where  stratus  or  fog  formation  is  extremely  difficult  to 
predict  is  investigated.  Cases  covered  include  variations  in 
mixed  layer  depth  and  wind  speed  which  produces  significantly 
different  forecasts  from  the  initial  input. 


TABLE  OF  CONTENTS 

I .  INTRODUCTION  6 

II.  DESCRIPTION  OF  BOUNDARY  LAYER  FEATURES  10 

III.  MODELS  16 

A.  MARINE  ATMOSPHERIC  BOUNDARY  LAYER  (MABL) 

MODEL  16 

B.  OCEANIC  BOUNDARY  LAYER  (OBL)  MODEL  23 

C.  COUPLED  BOUNDARY  LAYER  MODEL  28 

IV.  DATA  AND  MODEL  RESULTS  33 

A.  UNCOUPLED  MODEL  RESULTS  35 

B.  COUPLED  MODEL  RESULTS  37 

C.  COUPLED  MODEL  VARYING  MIXED  LAYER  DEPTH 

RESULTS  41 

D.  COUPLED  MODEL  VARYING  WIND  SPEED  RESULTS  44 

V.  RESULTS  AND  CONCLUSIONS  48 

LIST  OF  REFERENCES  5  0 

INITIAL  DISTRIBUTION  LIST  52 


LIST  OF  FIGURES 


1.  Simplified  Atmospheric  and  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer 
Temperature  Profiles  11 

2.  Mechanical  Energy  Budget  for  the  Ocean  Mixed  Layer  .   13 

3.  Simplified  Flow  Diagram  of  the  Boundary  Layer  Model 
Showing  Possible  Configurations  of  Input  Informa- 
tion, Interrelation  Between  Atmospheric  and  Oceanic 
Models,  Model  Outputs,  and  Tactical  Models  Which  Use 
These  Outputs  14 

4.  Input  and  Flow  Chart  for  MABL  Prediction  Model  18 

5.  Input  and  Flow  Chart  for  OBL  Prediction  Model  29 

6.  Input  and  Flow  Chart  for  Coupled  OBL  and  MABL 
Prediction  Model  31 

7.  Data  Set  34 

8.  Uncoupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  Model  24-Hour 
Forecast  Using  Fixed  SST  and  MLD  Values  36 

9.  OBL  24-Hour  Forecast  for  Original  Input  Conditions  .   38 

10.  Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 

for  Initial  Input  Conditions  39 

11.  OBL  Forecast  With  Initial  MLD  Set  at  10  Meters 

All  Other  Input  Values  are  Held  Constant  42 

12.  Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 
Varying  Initial  Sea  Surface  MLD  to  10  Meters  Vice 
Initial  Input  of  2  Meters  43 

13.  OBL  24-Hour  Forecast  With  Wind  Speed  Increasing 

from  4  to  10  Knots  in  the  Forecast  Period  45 

14.  Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 
Varying  Wind  Speed  from  4  to  10  Knots  in  the 

Forecast  Period  47 


I.        INTRODUCTION 

Military  leaders,  engineers,  and  scientists  have  become 
aware  of  the  environmental  effects  on  electromagnetic  (EM) 
and  elec trooptical  (EO)  signal  propogation.  Many  of  the 
current  weapons  guidance  systems,  command  and  control 
communications,  and  electronic  countermeasures  are  critically 
dependent  upon  environmental  parameters.  One  extreme  case 
was  recently  brought  to  the  attention  of  Pentagon  officials 
when  a  new  missile  guidance  system  became  totally  ineffective 
in  certain  environmental  conditions.  The  modern  naval  leader 
must  not  only  be  aware  of  the  environment  but  must  also  know 
how  to  use  the  current  environmental  conditions  to  best 
advantage.  The  deployment  of  resources,  decision  of 
appropriate  weapons  systems,  and  overall  tactics  must  include 
a  consideration  of  EM/EO  propagation.  The  overall 
effectiveness  and  the  successful  outcome  of  an  operation 
could    be    tied    to    this   very   knowledge. 

The  atmospheric  factors  which  effect  EM/EO  propogation 
are  the  temperature,  humidity,  vertical  gradient  of  pressure, 
small  scale  inhomogene i t ies  or  turbulence,  distribution  of 
aerosols,  and  concentration  of  water  vapor.  The  refraction 
of  EM/EO  signals  is  primarily  affected  by  the  first  three 
factors.  Turbulence  affects  the  index  of  refraction  through 
wave    front    distortions    while    the    remaining    factors    cause 


extinction  and  dispersion.  All  of  these  effects  are 
interlinked  and  they  must  be  computed  simultaneously. 
Another  problem  comes  in  measuring  each  of  these  factors.  No 
known  or  planned  system  provides  the  accuracy  required  for 
direct  measurement.  Indirect  methods  will  have  to  be  employed 
by  units  in  the  operational  arena  for  the  foreseeable  future. 

An  equally  important  problem  is  prediction  of  the  mixed 
layer  depth  and  sea  surface  temperature  in  the  ocean. 
Research  is  underway  to  find  the  relationship  between  the 
synoptic  scale  weather  patterns  and  the  sea  surface 
temperature.  Naval  operations  generally  take  place  in  areas 
where  the  marine  atmospheric  boundary  layer  (MABL)  has  been 
extensively  modified  by  contact  with  the  ocean  surface.   The 
effects  of  heat  flux  from  the  ocean  to  the  atmosphere  warming 
the  boundary  layer,  the  subsequent  increase  in  turbulence, 
the  transfer  of  water  vapor  to  the  air,  and  the  effects  of 
salt  and  other  aerosols  being  injected  into  the  air  by  waves 
are  all  important  to  Naval  operations.  These  fluxes  of  heat 
and  water  vapor  can  change  the  structure  of  the  MABL  to  the 
extent  that  clouds  or  fog  are  formed.   Clouds  and  fog  will 
dramatically  reduce  the  short  wave  solar  radiation  striking 
the  ocean  surface  thereby  reducing  the  surface  heating  due  to 
radiation.   The  diurnal  change  in  the  sea  surface  temperature 
and  mixed  layer  depth  will  be  decreased. 


In  determining  the  effect  upon  acoustic  propagation,  both 
the  depth  and  strength  of  the  mixed  layer  gradient  must  be 
considered.  Skip  zones  and  ducting  are  examples  of  oceanic 
phenomena  which  must  be  considered  in  every  naval  operation. 
Unusually  strong  or  weak  diurnal  affects  can  significantly 
alter  these  factors.  To  provide  an  optimum  forecast  of  the 
OBL,  the  effective  shortwave  radiation,  internal  mixing 
forces,  and  atmospheric  entrainment  must  be  taken  into 
consideration. 

It  is  obvious  that  any  attempt  at  modeling  the  MABL  and 
OBL  should  be  linked  for  optimum  results.  Microcomputer 
programs  developed  at  the  Naval  Postgraduate  School  for  the 
MABL  (Davidson,  et.  al.)  and  for  the  OBL  (Garwood)  have  been 
linked  to  provide  the  necessary  feedback.  While  both  of 
these  models  have  been  verified  independently,  the  linking 
should  improve  forecast  accuracy. 

Determining  situations  where  the  linking  has  significant 
effects  is  the  primary  goal  of  this  thesis.  Sensitivity 
studies  were  also  conducted  in  an  attempt  to  determine  which 
if  any  of  the  factors  provide  significant  differences  between 
the  coupled  and  uncoupled  models.  Additionally,  since  the 
model  is  currently  running  on  a  Hewlett  Packard  9836 
microcomputer  and  the  fleet  units  are  and  will  be  using 
Hewlett  Packard  9845's  for  several  more  years,  it  is 
necessary  to  transfer  the  code  to  the  latter  unit.   Since  the 


internal  architecture  of  the  two  systems  is  significantly 
different,  changes  in  program  structure  will  have  to  be 
verified  for  accuracy  and  consistency  with  the  original 
model. 

Having  mixed  layer  forecasting  capabilities  onboard 
should  enable  the  operational  fleet  units  to  use  the 
environment  to  maximum  advantage.  Not  only  can  forecasts  be 
updated  rapidly  as  on-site  conditions  vary,  but  those  "what 
if    questions    can    be    answered   quickly   and    accurately. 


II.   DESCRIPTION  OF  BOUNDARY  LAYER  FEATURES 

The  MABL  extends  from  the  surface  through  the  capping 
inversion  which  is  typically  .5-1.5  km  above  the  surface. 
The  MABL  is  cooler  andmore  moist  than  the  overlying  air,  and 
it  is  capped  by  an  inversion  50-100  meters  thick. 
Temperature  increases  and  humidity  decreases  with  height  in 
this  inversion.  The  air-sea  interface  is  bordered  by  oceanic 
and  atmospheric  turbulent  mixed  layers  which  effectively 
insulate  the  quasi-geostrophic  regions  above  the  inversion 
and  below  the  thermocline.  The  OBL  or  mixed  layer  in  the 
ocean  typically  spans  the  upper  10-100M  of  the  ocean.  Mean 
velocity  and  density  values  tend  to  be  vertically  uniform  in 
this  region.  At  the  bottom  of  the  mixed  layer  a  transition 
region  exists  called  the  thermocline.  Turbulence  in  these 
well  mixed  regions  is  created  by  bouyancy,  flux  and  velocity 
gradients  that  are  a  result  of  air-sea  interactions.  The 
vertical  homogeneity  of  these  two  mixed  layers  can  be 
attributed  to  the  strong  mixing  by  the  turbulent  motion. 

Bouyancy  driven  energetic  eddies  fill  the  OBL  and  MABL. 
In  the  atmosphere  the  eddies  entrain  warm,  dry  air  with  high 
momentum  from  the  free  atmosphere  into  the  boundary  layer. 
If  this  entrainment  causes  the  MABL  to  extend  above  the 
lifting  condensation  level,  then  clouds  or  fog  will  form.  A 
typical  profile  of  the  MABL  and  OBL  is  shown  in  Figure  1.  As 

10 


Free  Atmosphere 

2 


Inversion 


Mixed  Layer 

4*    Interface 
Mixed  Layer 

±  Thermocline 


T 


Free  Ocean 


Figure  1.   Simplified  Atmospheric  and  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer 
Temperature  Profiles 


11 


can  be  seen  from  Figure  2,  the  bouyancy  driven  fluctuations 
have  an  even  more  direct  role  in  the  mechanical  energy  budget 
for  the  OBL. 

With  the  understanding  of  the  importance  of  bouyantly 
driven  entrainment  effects,  the  necessity  to  couple  the  near 
surface  prediction  models  is  obvious.  A  cause  and  effect 
relationship  is  developed  through  the  interactions  of  the 
ocean  and  atmospheric  surfaces.  Examples  of  this  effect 
include : 

1.  Surface  bouyancy  flux  induced  entrainment  not  only 
increases  the  depth  of  the  MABL,  but  it  also  changes  its 
effect  on  the  ocean  mixed  layer. 

2.  Clouds  in  the  MABL  can  be  caused  by  a  change  in  the 
ocean  surface  temperature  which  in  turn  affects  the 
radiation  budget. 

The  relatively  complex  models  used  to  predict  these 
features  have  been  tested  in  both  the  coupled  and  uncoupled 
modes.  While  often  little  improvement  is  noted  in  the 
output  in  the  coupled  versus  uncoupled  modes,  under  certain 
circumstances  the  coupled  mode  is  mandatory  and  produces 
significantly  better  forecasts.  It  is  the  goal  of  current 
research  to  determine  exactly  what  factors  have  the  strongest 
influence  on  coupling  and  under  what  circumstances  coupled 
models  must  be  utilized. 

The  purpose  of  this  thesis  is  to  show  under  what 
circumstances  the  coupled  approach  is  most  useful.  The 
answers   will   hopefully  be   obtained   through   interpretive 


12 


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PLUS  ABSORPTION   OF  SOLAH  RAOlATlOM 


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Figure  2.   Mechanical  Energy  Budget  for  the  Ocean  Mixed  Layer 

efforts  using  the  power  of  the  computer.  By  varying  the 
angle  of  radiation  (latitude),  amount  of  radiation  (month), 
and  start  time  for  the  program,  each  set  of  output  will  be 
compared  and  analyzed  for  consistency.  A  typical  case  will 
then  be  selected  and  further  studies  will  be  conducted.  The 
effects  of  coupled  versus  uncoupled  oceanic  mixed  layer  depth 
variations  and  wind  speed  variations  will  be  examined. 

The  magnitude  and  usefulness  of   this  effort  is 
illustrated  in  Figure  3.   Outputs  from  the  coupled  model  can 


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be  used  tactically  in  forecasts  shown  in  the  righthand  column 
of  Figure  3.  The  models  to  be  used  for  the  forecast  include 
the  Garwood  Model  and  the  Naval  Postgraduate  School  Marine 
Atmospheric  Boundary  Layer  Model.  A  detailed  description  of 
each  model  and  the  approach  taken  in  coupling  the  outputs 
will  be  discussed.  While  this  understanding  is  not  necessary 
in  the  utilization  of  the  output,  it  may  provide  useful 
information  in  obtaining  maximum  benefit  from  the  program. 


15 


III.   MODELS 

A.   MARINE  ATMOSPHERIC  BOUNDARY  LAYER  (MABL)  MODEL 

The  NPS  MABL  model  is  a  zero-order,  two  layer,  integrated 
mixed  layer  model.  The  model  assumes  the  atmosphere  consists 
of  two  layers;  a  well  mixed,  turbulent  boundary  layer,  and 
the  relatively  non-turbulent  free  atmosphere  above.  The 
model  is  based  on  radiative  transfers  described  by  Davidson, 
et.  al.  (1983)  and  entrainment  energetics  formulated  by  Stage 
and  Businger  (1981). 

The  two  zones  are  separated  by  an  inversion  layer  or 
transition  zone.  The  zero-order  model  assumes  this 
transition  zone  to  be  infinitely  thin;  therefore,  a  jump  or 
discontinuity  occurs  at  this  point  in  the  profiles  of  all 
conservative  parameters. 

The  current  model  requires  the  following  inputs: 

1.  An  initial  atmospheric  sounding. 

2.  The  geostrophic  wind. 

3.  The  surface  temperature. 

In  an  operational  scenario  the  boundary  layer  winds  can 
be  estimated  from  standard  meteorological  charts.  During 
this  evaluation  the  actual  hourly  winds  were  input  for 
initialization  purposes.  In  the  uncoupled  version,  sea 
surface  temperature  (SST)  remains  unchanged;  however,  when 
coupled,  the  SST  does  change  with  time  and  is  predicted  by 

16 


the  OBL  model.  The  humidity  and  temperature  in  the  well 
mixed  MABL  are  predicted.  Inputs  of  the  surface  wind  and 
wind  shear  at  the  inversion  are  required  by  the  MABL  model. 
The  large  scale  subsidence  normally  obtained  from  synoptic 
scale  NWP  products  must  also  be  prescribed  for  the  model 
period. 

The  model  is  very  sensitive  to  subsidence  values; 
therefore,  care  should  be  taken  in  selecting  this  value  for 
proper  results.  Three  methods  can  be  used  to  compute  the 
subsidence  (large  scale  vertical  velocity)  from  single 
station  observations.  These  three  methods  are  the  kinematic 
method,  adiabatic  method,  and  integration  of  the  moisture 
budget  equation  (Q-method)  which  are  all  well  described  by 
Gleason  (1982).  Gleason's  study  showed  the  Q-method 
displayed  the  most  merit  as  a  single-station  assessment  of 
subsidence.  Computation  of  the  solar  zenith  angle,  which  is 
used  to  compute  effective  short  wave  flux,  uses  the  latitude, 
Julian   day   and    start    time    which    are    initial    input   values. 

As  shown  in  Figure  4  the  atmospheric  model  has  a  30- 
minute  time  step.  During  each  cycle,  the  program  predicts 
the  mixed  layer  temperature,  humidity,  and  the  jump  of  these 
values  at  the  inversion.  When  clouds  or  fog  are  formed,  the 
cloud  top  cooling  and  entrainment  computations  are  important 
in   the   physical   processes. 


17 


Prescribed  inputs: 

Aeos trophic  wind  speed 
Sea  surface  temp. 
Subsidence 
Advection 

-J/ 

Required  profiles: 
Temperature 
Humidity 
(Surface  to  3 Km) 

V 

' 

Compute: 

Surface  fluxes 
Condensation  levels 


30  min. 
time 

step 


Compute: 
Entrainment 


Compute: 
Entrainment 
Cloud  top  cooling 


I 


J 


Compute  updated: 
Mixed  layer  depth 
Mixed  layer  temperature 
Mixed  layer  humidity 
Jump  strengths 
EM  ducts 

Optical  turbulence  and  extinction 
Dispersion 


Figure  4.  Input  and  Flow  Chart  for  MABL  Prediction  Model 


18 


The  conservative  quantities  and  their  jump  at  the 
inversion  is  predicted  by  using  the  standard  integrated  rate 
equations    (Tennekes,    et.al.,    1981).      The   equations   are: 


h(Dx/Dt)    =    (w'x'Jq    -    (w'x')h   +   source  (1) 


h(DAx/Dt)  =  hrx(3h/at)  -  (w'x')o  +  (w'x')h  "  source    (2) 
r      =  Lapse  Rate 

Source  =y-(Fnh  -  Fnn)/pCp  for  x  =  temperature 
(_0  for  x  =  humidity 

Fn      =  Net  Radiative  Heat  Flux 

The  subscripts  "h"  and  "0"  refer  to  inversion  height  and 
surface  values  respectively. 

To  close  this  system  of  equations  and  to  compute  the 
variation  in  the  inversion  height  (Stage,  et.al.,  1981) 
entrainment  velocity  parameterization  is  used.  One 
additional  assumption  is  used  to  close  the  system  and  that  is 
that  the  dissipation  rate  of  turbulent  kinetic  energy  (TKE) 
is  a  fraction  (1-A)  of  the  production  rate.  The  entrainment 
coefficient  (A)  is  taken  as  .2  for  the  formulation. 

The  bulk  aerodynamic  formulas  are  used  for  surface  fluxes 
of  momentum,  sensible  heat,  and  latent  heat. 

u*  =  Cd1/2U10  (3a) 

T*  =  C^/2(eo  _  Q)  (3b) 

<5*    =    c//2(q0    -    q)  (3c) 

These    fluxes    are   given   by: 

19 


u'w1  =  u*^   (momentum)  (4a) 


T'w1  =  u*T*  (sensible  heat)  (4b) 


q'w1  =  u*q*  (latent  heat)  (4c) 

C3  and  c^   =  ten  meter   stability  dependent  drag 

coefficient 

<j>  =  potential  temperature 

q  =  specific  humidity 

The  subscript  0  denotes  surface  values. 

In  the  MABL  model,  extensive  work  has  been  done  on  the 
radiation  portion  because  of  its  significance  to  the  OBL 
model  and  the  sampling  of  the  two  models.  The  short  wave 
radiative  flux  is  computed  through  use  of  the  delta-Edington 
Method.  An  excellent  review  of  the  delta-Edington  Method 
including  all  parameters,  atmospheric  factors,  and  equations 
has  been  published  by  Fairall  (1981).  This  portion  of  the 
model  was  added  to  account  for  the  heating  of  the  mixed  layer 
by  solar  radiation. 

In  the  boundary  layer,  short  wave  extinction  is  dominated 
by  scattering  vice  absorption.  This  second  short  wave 
radiative  component  is  usually  referred  to  as  diffuse  solar 
radiation.  Atmospheric  particles  such  as  cloud  droplets  and 
sea-salt  aerosols  are  the  primary  scattering  nuclei  in  the 
MABL.  The  current  MABL  model  computes  both  direct  and 
diffuse  radiation  components  to  determine  a  total  short  wave 
radiation  flux  value  at  the  surface.    In  addition,   the 

20 


fraction    of    reflected    short   wave    radiation,    Ag,     from    the    sea 
surface    is   prescribed   as   .1    in    the    MABL    model. 

The  modeling  of  radiative  flux  transfer  has  been 
accomplished  in  numerous  ways;  however,  even  the  simple 
models  are  extremely  complex  compared  to  other 
par  ameter  izat ions  used  in  the  model.  Even  though  long  and 
short  wave  radiative  fluxes  are  computed  separately,  there 
are  numerous  sources  of  error  in  these  calculations.  Some  of 
these    sources    include: 

1.  Concentrations  or  lack  of  absorbing  gases  such  as 
carbon  dioxide,  ozone,  or  water  vapor  in  the 
atmosphere. 

2.  The  uncertainty  of  quantity,  size  and  distribution  of 
background    aerosols. 

3.  The  size  of  various  cloud  droplets  and  their 
distribution. 

Since    this    model   primarily   intended   for   use  over   ocean 

areas    non-black    stratus    clouds    were    permitted    by    introducing 

cloud     emissivity     (ec)     into     the     long    wave    radiative     flux 

calculation.      Cloud  emissivity   is  a  function  cf   total  cloud 

liquid    content,     w.       Cloud    liquid    content    profiles    are 

approximately    linear    with    height    (Davidson,     et.al.,     1983) 

Cloud    water    content    and    emissivity    are    given    by    equations    5 

and    6. 

w      =    0.5    Pa    (h-Zc)    qh  (5) 

e c    =   1    -   exp(-aw)  (6) 


21 


pa  =  air  density  (1.25  x  10~3  gm  cm~^) 

h  =  height  of  the  mixed  layer  (cloud  top) 

Zc  =  lifting  condensation  level  (cloud  bottom) 

a  =  0.158  (Slingo,  et.al.,  1981) 

q^  =  liquid  water  content  at  cloud  top 

Using  the  Stefan  Boltzman  Law,  the  net  long  wave  cloud 
top  radiation  flux,  Ln^/  can  be  calculated  from  the  cloud  top 
temperature,  Th.  The  cloud  bottom  temperature,  Tc,  and  the 
sea  surface  temperature,  Ts,  are  used  to  calculate  the  flux, 
Lnc,  at  the  bottom  of  the  cloud.   These  fluxes  are  given  by: 

Lnh  =  eca  (Th4  -  Tsky4)  (7) 

Lnc  =  ec°  (Ts4  "  Tc4)  (8) 

o   =  Stefan's  Constant  (4.61  x  10-11 
ec  =  obtained  from  equation  (4) 

The  net  long  wave  radiation  at  the  surface,  F]_ong,  becomes: 

Flong  =   (Ts4  "  =CT4  "  d  "  ^C)Tsky4)  (9) 

T  =  average  cloud  temperature 

For  the  cloud  free  case,  the  net  fluxes  are  calculated  at 
Z  =  h  and  Z  =  0  by  integrating  the  flux  emissivity  profile 
(Fleagle,  et.al.,  1978).  The  net  long  wave  flux  at  the 
surface  for  the  clear  sky  case  is  given  by: 


22 


Flong  =  Fu  -  Fd  (10) 

Fu  =  upward  radiative  flux 
F^  =  downward  radiative  flux 

B.   OCEANIC  BOUNDARY  LAYER  (OBL)  MODEL 

A  mixed  layer  model  for  the  ocean  using  the  continuity 
equation  for  an  incompressible  fluid,  the  first  law  of 
thermodynamics  (heat  equation),  the  conservation  of  salt 
equation,  the  Navier-S tokes  equation  of  motion  with  the 
geostrophic  component  eliminated,  an  analytical  equation  of 
state,  and  a  two-component  vertically  integrated  turbulent 
kinetic  energy  budget  was  developed  by  Garwood  (1977). 

An  understanding  of  the  dynamics  of  the  entrainment 
process  is  a  key  factor  in  predicting  the  variable  changes  in 
the  mixed  layer.  The  turbulence  of  the  overlying  mixed  layer 
provides  the  energy  needed  to  destabilize  and  erode  the 
underlying  stable  water  mass  (Garwood,  1977).  The  turbulent 
kinetic  energy  equation  is  the  basis  for  the  entrainment.  A 
closed  system  of  equations  is  obtained  by  using  the  bulk 
buoyancy  and  momentum  equations  with  the  mean  turbulent  field 
modeling  of  the  vertically  integrated  equations  for  the 
individual  turbulent  kinetic  energy  (TKE)  components. 

To  better  define  the  mixing  process,  separate  horizontal 
and  vertical  TKE  equations  are  used.  Energy  for  vertical 
mixing  is  provided  by  both  buoyancy  flux  and  shear 


23 


production.  The  buoyancy  equation  is  derived  from  the  heat 
and  salt  equations  coupled  with  the  equation  of  state  as 
shown  in  equation  (11). 

7  =  P0  [1  -  a(§-  e0)  +  b(s  -  s0)]  (11) 

Bouyancy  is  given  by: 

6  =  g  (pq  -  p)/po  (12) 

9  =  temperature 

s  =  salinity 

p  =  density 

g  =  gravity 

a  =  expansion  coefficient  for  heat 

B  =  density  coefficient  for  salt 

Note:  The  tilde  represents  instantaneous  values  and  the 
subscript  0  represents  an  arbitrary,  but  representa- 
tive, constant  value. 

The  effect  of  the  salinity  on  the  short-term  density  profile 
evaluation  is  generally  found  to  be  insignificant  except  at 
higher  latitudes.  Temperature  is  usually  the  dominating 
factor  in  the  density  profile.  However,  by  using  buoyancy 
instead  of  only  temperature  permits  the  model  to  be  applied 
in  situations  where  evaporation  and  precipitation  contribute 
significantly  to  the  surface  bouyancy  flux. 

For  extended  forecasts,  the  Ekman  wind-driven  horizontal 
current  profiles  as  well  as  the  temperature  and  salinity 

24 


profiles  must  be  provided  with  initial  values.  The  mixed 
layer  depth,  "h",  as  defined  by  the  Garwood  OBL  model,  is  the 
shallowest  depth  at  which  the  observed  density  value,  ofcf  is 
.02  at  units  greater  than  the  observed  surface  density  value. 
Additional  ocean  parameters  which  must  be  prescribed  include 
the  radiation  extinction  coefficient,  the  fraction  of  short 
wave  radiation  absorbed  in  the  upper  meter  of  the  ocean,  and 
the  critical  Richardson  number  which  defines  a  stability 
adjustment  at  the  bottom  of  the  mixed  layer.  Surface 
boundary  conditions  required  for  the  OBL  model  include  air 
temperature  (dry  bulb),  dew  point  temperature,  wind  speed  and 
direction,  the  rate  of  evaporation  (E)  and  precipitation  (P)  , 
and  the  incident  solar  radiation. 

Using  the  bulk  aerodynamics  formulas,  the  turbulent 

fluxes  of  sensible  heat,  Qhr  and  latent  heat,  Q6'  can  be 
computed  as  follows: 

Qe  =  Cd  (.98  Es  -  Ea)U10  (13a) 

Qh  ■  Cd  (Ts  -  Ta)Ui0  (13b) 

The  net  back  radiation  is  estimated  from  the  empirical 

equation  (Husby,  1978). 

Qb=1.14xl0"7(273.16+Ts)4(.39-.5Ea1/2) (1-.6C2)        (13c) 

Es  =  saturated  vapor  pressure  (.98  corrects  for  salt 

defects) 
Ea  =  vapor  pressure  of  air  based  on  dew  point  temperature 

T=  =  air  temperature 


25 


Ts  =  sea  surface  temperature 
C   =  fractional  cloud  cover 

The  upward  heat  flux,  Qu,  is  then  given  by: 

Qu  =  Qe  +  Qh  +  Qb  (14) 

The  solar  radiation,  Qs,  is  given  by: 

Qs  =  (1  -  a   b)  (1  -  .66C3)Q0  (15) 

The  constants  "a"  and  "b"  are  adopted  from  Tabata  (1964)  and 
the  cubic  cloud  cover  correction  from  Laevestu  (1960).  Qq  is 
the   clear    sky   radiation    given    by    Seckel    and    Beauday    (1973)  : 

Q0    =   An    +   A1    COS4,   +    3j_    sin<j)   +   A2    cos2  <j>   +   B2    sin2<j>  (16) 

The  coefficients  Ao ,  Ai»  etc.  are  calculated  by  harmonic 
representation  of  the  values  predicted  in  the  Smithsonian 
Meteorological   Tables   with 

4>    =    (2V365)  (t-21)  (17) 

where  t  is  the  Julian  day  of  the  year  (O'Loughlin,  1982). 

A  very  small  percentage  of  the  incoming  solar  radiation 
penetrates  the  ocean  mixed  layer.  Approximately  50  percent 
is  absorbed  in  the  first  meter  of  the  ocean  in  most  parts  of 
the  open  ocean.  The  portion  absorbed  varies  from  region  to 
region  and  is  highly  dependent  upon  such  things  as  suspended 


26 


particulate  matter  and  phytoplankton.  More  radiation  will  be 
absorbed  in  coastal  regions  than  the  open  ocean  because  of 
the  increased  amount  of  suspended  particulates.  This  portion 
of  the  absorbed  radiation  is  considered  to  be  part  of  the 
upward  heat  flux  because  very  little  of  this  heat  is 
entrained  into  the  deep  ocean.  Most  of  this  energy  is 
transferred  upward  out  of  the  ocean  and  back  into  the 
atmosphere.  The  remainder  of  the  short  wave  radiation  does 
penetrate  the  mixed  layer;  however,  an  exponential 
attenuation  does  take  place  which  is  highly  dependent  upon 
water  turbidity.  With  the  fraction  of  solar  radiation 
absorbed  in  the  first  meter,  RF,  the  net  heat  at  the  surface 
is  given  by: 

Qnet  ■  Qu  +  (RF)  Qs  ~  Qs  (18) 

From  the  equations  discussed  above,  the  momentum  and 

surface  fluxes  of  buoyancy  (heat  and  salt)  can  be  computed. 

The  mixed  layer  temperature,  salinity,  bouyancy  and  velocity 

fluxes  are  given  by: 


(T'w1)  =  Qnet/  Cp  (19a) 


(S'w1)  =  (P  -  E)  S0  (19b) 


(b1"^)  =  g[a(Trwnr)  -  b  (s^w"1")  ]  (19c) 

(uV")  =  U*2  (19d) 

Subscript  0  refers  to  surface  value.  The  friction  velocity 
in  air,  U*,  is  given  by: 


27 


U*  =  (ts/pa)1/2  (20) 

where  ts  =  pa  Cd  Uio2  (21) 

ts  =  surface  stress  (dynes  cm"  ) 
A  positive  surface  buoyancy  flux  results  when  Qnet  <  0  an<3 
E  >  P.  During  daytime  periods,  the  solar  heating  at  the  sur- 
face dominates  giving  a  negative  buoyancy  flux.  At  night  the 
combination  of  long  wave  radiation  and  the  upward  turbulent 
fluxes  of  heat  and  moisture  produce  a  positive  buoyancy  flux. 

The  ocean  model,  as  shown  in  Figure  5,  details  the  inputs 
discussed  above.  At  each  one-hour  interval,  new  mixed  layer 
depth,  temperature,  salinity,  and  wind-driven  current 
profiles  are  predicted. 

C.   COUPLED  BOUNDARY  LAYER  MODEL 

The  advantage  of  linking  the  two  models  described  in  the 
previous  two  sections  is  obvious  when  examining  the  inputs  to 
each  of  the  models.  Allowing  feedback  of  current  input 
parameters  to  occur  between  the  models  at  each  time  step  can 
potentially  produce  significantly  better  forecasts. 
O'Loughlin  (1982)  accomplished  the  initial  coupling  on  a 
Hewlett-Packard  9836  microcomputer  taking  care  not  to  alter 
the  physical  process  in  each  of  the  models  and  insuring  all 
variable  units  were  passed  uniformly.  The  MABL  model  only 
requires  the  SST  from  the  OBL  model.  The  correct  SST  is 
extremely  important  to  the  MABL  model  and  affects  the  entire 
output  package  as  discussed  in  the  next  section. 


Prescribed  Inputs: 

Surface  wind  speed  and  direction 
Incident  Radiation 
Precipitation  -  Evaporation 
Surface  (lm)  Radiation  Absorption 
Critical  Richardson  Number 


N/ 


Required  Profiles: 
Temperature 
Salinity 
Velocity 


Compute: 

Surface  Fluxes 
Stability  Parameters 


Retreat 
Mode 


Compute  Updated: 
Mixed  layer  depth 
Well  mixed  temperature  (SST) 
Well  mixed  salinity 


Figure  5.  Input  and  Flow  Chart  for  CBL  Prediction  Model 


29 


The  initial  coupling  problems  overcome  by  O'Loughlin 
[Ref.  13]  included: 

1.  The  atmospheric  model  uses  a  30-minute  timestep 
while  the  ocean  model  uses  a  1-hour  timestep.  The  coupled 
model  calls  the  ocean  model  on  every  other  timestep  to 
overcome  this  problem. 

2.  The  atmospheric  model  requires  only  wind  speed 
and  not  direction.  The  ocean  model  requires  wind  direction 
to  compute  the  horizontal  ocean  turbulent  velocity  flux, 
Uy*^ ,  for  the  momentum  budget  equation.  A  subroutine  was 
added  to  compute  the  horizontal  wind  components  from  speed 
and  direction  input  during  the  initialization. 

A  complete  flow  diagram  of  the  steps  in  the  coupled  model's 

prediction  computation  is  shown  in  Figure  6. 

In  1982  and  1983  the  Naval  Oceanography  Command  purchased 
and  distributed  Hewlett-Packard  9845  microcomputers  to  all 
aviation  support  ships  and  selected  detachments.  These  units 
were  designated  as  interim  TESS  (Tactical  Environmental 
Support  System)  units  until  the  TESS  system  is  deployed.  The 
9845  has  proven  itself  as  a  structurally  strong  computer. 
Many  application  packages  have  been  written  for  the  unit  and 
more  are  being  distributed  by  The  Naval  Environmental 
Prediction  Research  Facility  (NEPER)F  all  the  time. 

The  original  formulation  of  a  coupled  model  was  done  on  a 
Hewlett-Packard  (HP)  9836  computer.  Transferring  this 
working  code  from  the  9836  to  the  9845  would,  on  the  surface, 
appear  to  be  a  trivial  matter.  On  the  contrary,  the  9836  is 
a  16  bit  computer  system  based  on  the  Motorola  68000  micro- 
processor capable  of  addressing  one  megabyte  of  memory. 


30 


Prescribed  inputs: 
Aecstrophic  wind  speed 
SST  (Initial) 
Subsidence 
Advecticn 


Required  profiles: 
Temperature 
Humidity 


T 


Compute: 
Surface  fluxes 
Condensation  levels 


Conpute: 
Ehtrainment 


Compute: 
Ehtrainment 
Cloud  top  cooling 


1, 


Call  ocean  model: 
Compute  updated: 
Sea  surface  temp 
Mixed  layer  depth 


Compute  updated: 
Mixed  layer  depth 
Mixed  layer  temperature 
Mixed  layer  humidity 
Jump  strengths 
EM  ducts 

Optical  turbulence  and  extinction 
Dispersion 


Figure    6.       Input    and    Flow   Chart    for    Coupled    OBL   and   MABL   Pre- 
diction  Model 


31 


Having  16  bit  accuracy  and  the  large  memory  addressing 
capability  allowed  the  relatively  easy  coupling  of  the 
initial  model.  The  9845  is  advertised  by  HP  to  be  a  16  bit 
computer  with  a  proprietary  processor  to  HP.  The  processor 
has  the  limited  capabilities  of  an  8  bit  processor  in 
addressable  memory  (64K).  This  required  extensive  changes  in 
the  structure  of  the  coupled  model.  In  addition,  while  the 
company  claims  16  bit  accuracy  with  the  9845,  the  extensive 
changes  in  code  require  verification  that  model  physics  and 
output  have  not  been  modified  by  the  lack  of  precision  or 
round  off  error  within  the  computer  system.  Another  factor 
in  preparing  the  program  was  to  reduce  its  overall  size  so  as 
to  use  only  one  tape  for  the  program  and  one  tape  for  data  to 
eliminate  the  confusing  practice  of  continually  swapping 
tapes  during  program  execution.  Transfer  of  information  from 
or  to  tape  units  is  slow  and  must  be  limited.  Making  the 
program  as  user  friendly  as  possible  is  an  additional 
consideration. 


32 


IV.   DATA  AND  MODEL  RESULTS 

The  data  set  used  for  this  analysis  of  the  model  is  a 
modified  set  from  the  Cooperative  Experiment  on  West  Coast 
Oceanography  and  Meteorology  (CEWCOM-76)  shown  in  Figure  7. 
The  data  set  was  modified  to  maximize  the  effects  on  the 
program  output.  Care  has  been  taken  to  ensure  the  input  is 
reasonable  and  representative  of  the  area  to  be  discussed. 
The  primary  goal  of  this  application  is  to  show  the 
sensitivity  of  the  program  to  variations  in  input. 
Additionally,  these  model  results  could  easily  form  a 
scenario  for  a  fleet  application  showing  the  utility  of  the 
program. 

The  problem  to  be  posed  for  this  analysis  is  "will  clouds 
form  within  the  next  24  hour  period?"  This  problem  could  be 
quite  significant  if  perhaps  the  forecaster  was  on  a  vessel 
with  only  the  local  observations.  The  availability  of  good 
facsimile  and  satellite  products  have  greatly  reduced  the 
burden  on  present  day  forecasters.  The  other  problem 
associated  with  forecasting  for  an  afloat  unit,  especially 
any  U.S.  Navy  ship,  is  that  these  forecast  officers  transfer 
positions.  The  forecaster  does  not  have  the  opportunity  to 
gain  the  expertise  of  an  individual  permanently  assigned  to 
one  forecast  office.  Therefore,  it  is  of  paramount 
importance  that  adequate  tools  be  made  available  to  the 

33 


ATMOSPHERIC  DATA  SET 

Date  21  June 

Latitude  30°  N 

Surface  Temperature  19°  C 

Temperature  Jump  at  Inversion  3.5°  C 

Lifting  Condensation  Level  567m 

Inversion  Level  607m 

Winds  Average  ~  3.5  knots 

Mixed  Layer  Specific  Humidity  10.2  g/kg 

Jump  Strength  -2.4  g/kg 

OCEAN  DATA  SET 

Sea  Surface  Temperature  21.07°  C 

Mixed  Layer  Depth  (initial)  2.0  m 

Jump  Strength  2.0°  C 

Figure  7.   Data  Set 

forecaster.  This  program  is  just  such  a  tool.  Using  onboard 
HP9845  assets,  the  fleet  geophysics  officer  can  input  local 
observations  and  receive  a  24-hour  forecast  for  the  OBL  and 

MABL.  In  addition  this  program  allows  the  forecaster  to 
answer  those  nagging  and  sometimes  critical  "what  if" 
questions  such  as: 


34 


1.  What  if  the  wind  speed  varies? 

2.  What  if  the  mixed  layer  depth  changes? 

3.  What  if  the  subsidence  rate  varies? 

To  examine  the  coupled  and  uncoupled  models  and  their 
interactions,  the  models  were  initialized  using  the  following 
conditions.  The  overall  synoptic  situation  is  very  stable. 
A  large  high  pressure  system  is  dominating  the  synoptic 
pattern  in  the  region.  Light  winds  averaging  approximately  3 
knots  with  the  strong  subsidence  of  the  high  pressure  system 
has  resulted  in  clear  summer  days.  No  change  in  the  general 
synoptic  pattern  is  forecast  for  the  region  by  the  numerical 
weather  prediction  (NWP)  products  produced  from  Fleet 
Numerical  Oceanography  Center  (FNOC).  The  air  temperature 
has  remained  around  19°  C.  The  long  periods  of  sunlight  have 
caused  a  strong,  shallow  mixed  layer  to  form  on  the  surface 
of  the  ocean  approximately  2.0  meters  deep  with  a  2°  C 
temperature  jump  at  the  boundary.  Two  soundings  and  hourly 
meteorological  observations  have  been  taken  in  the  last  24 
hours  and  are  available  for  use.  The  date  is  June  21st  and 
all  data  assumes  a  latitude  of  30°  N.  Start  time  for  each 
forecast  is  1900. 

A.   UNCOUPLED  MODEL  RESULTS 

The  first  output  to  be  examined  is  that  of  an  uncoupled 
(atmospheric  model  only)  model.  As  seen  in  Figure  8,  the 
mixed  layer  depth  (MLD)  is  held  fixed  at  the  original  value. 

35 


-BOO 


on 


C3 

Ui 

Q_ 

on 


4  - 


2- 


£    -H 

Q_ 
UJ 


-2 


INV(LJNE) 
LCLIDP.SH) 


RIR  TEMP (LINE) 
SEfl  TEMP(DflSH) 


SPEC  HUM 


WIND  SPEED 


12 


MIXED  LAYER  DEPTH 


8       12      16 

HOURS  PETER  START 


20 


21 


Figure    8. 


Uncoupled   Air    Sea    Boundary   Layer    Model    24-Hour 
Forecast   Using   Fixed    SST   and   MLD  Values 


36 


Winds  for  this  run  were  forecast  to  remain  light  and  variable 

and  generally  out  of  the  north.   The  specific  humidity  shows 

an  almost  linear  rise  throughout  the  forecast  period  as  heat 

and  moisture  is  transferred  from  the  ocean  surface  into  the 

MABL.   Evidence  of  this  heating  can  also  be  found  in  the  plot 

for  the  MABL  temperature.   The  plot  shows  an  almost  linear 
increase  toward  the  sea  surface  temperature  (SST)  during  the 

first  20  hours.   Looking  closely,  a  slight  steepening  of  the 

gradient  does  occur  with  the  rising  of  the  sun,  and  the 

gradient  decreases  sharply  late  in  the  period  as  the  solar 

altitude  decreases  and  the  strong  temperature  difference  has 

been  removed.   The  difference  in  height  of  the  lifting 

condensation  level  (LCL)  and  the  inversion  decreases  early  in 

the  period  and  then  becomes  parallel.    Looking  at  this 

forecast,  no  clouds  will  form,  however,  the  LCL  and  inversion 

height  are  very  close  together  and  asking  a  couple  of  the 

"what  if"  questions  listed  above  would  seem  appropriate. 

B.   COUPLED  MODEL  RESULTS 

In  Figures  9  and  10  the  differences  in  the  coupled  model 
output  can  be  examined.  As  discussed  earlier,  many  cause  and 
effect  relationships  exist  between  the  ocean  and  atmosphere. 
The  changes  in  SST  and  mixed  layer  depth  are  input  at  each 
time  step  into  the  atmospheric  model.  Changes  in  air  tempe- 
rature and  winds  are  fed  back  to  the  ocean  model.   It  would 


37 


TEMPERATURE  TETPERRTURE  TEMPERATURE 

18  19  20  21  22      18  19  2D  2)  22     18  18  20  2)  23 

a-r 


2303 


4C0 


TEMPERBTliRE  TEMPERATURE 

18     18     20    21     Z2  IS     18     20    21 

0  I      I  | 


X 

s  - 


soo 


T- 


1400 


TEMPERATURE 

22  18     '.9     20    2) 
i    \r  i 


1900 


Figure  9.   OBL  24-Hour  Forecast  for  Original  Input  Conditi 


ons 


38 


1000 


INVILINEZ) 
LCLIDR5H) 


AIR  TEKPILINE) 
SEP  TEMP(DRSH) 


SPEC  HUM 


WIND  SPEED 


MIXED  LfiYER  DEPTH 


8       12      16 

HOURS  RPTER  S7RRT 


20 


24 


Figure  10, 


Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 
for  Initial  Input  Conditions 


39 


seem  logical  that  the  coupled  model  should  produce  a  better 
forecast  since  many  of  these  factors  are  taken  into  account. 

The  strong  gradient  near  the  surface  is  evident  in  Figure 
9.  Note  that  a  small  decrease  in  temperature  at  the  surface 
has  a  marked  effect  on  the  depth  of  the  mixed  layer.  Through- 
out the  early  period  heat  is  being  transferred  into  the 
atmosphere  with  no  replenishment.  This  trend  is  reversed 
later  in  the  day  when  short  wave  radiation  absorbed  by  the 
sea  surface  is  converted  into  heat,  re-establishing  the 
shallow  mixed  layer.  Changes  in  the  mixed  layer  are  also 
traced  in  the  lower  plot  of  Figure  10.  The  wind  speed  has 
been  prescribed  and  is  the  same  as  for  the  previous  case. 
The  specific  humidity  curve  is  markedly  different.  While  the 
early  results  show  the  same  increase  approximately  14  hours 
into  the  forecast,  a  strong  decrease  is  noted  in  the  specific 
humidity.  This  change  is  associated  with  the  formation  of 
clouds  in  the  MABL  and  reduction  of  the  moisture  flux  as  the 
atmosphere  becomes  warmer  than  the  SST.  The  temperature  pro- 
files are  also  markedly  different.  Allowing  the  SST  to  vary 
at  each  time  step  allows  the  atmosphere  and  sea  surface  tem- 
peratures to  come  together  very  rapidly.  The  sea  surface 
continues  to  cool  until  short  wave  radiation  inputs  reverse 
the  trend.  Early  in  the  period  the  LCL  and  inversion  heights 
are  similar  to  the  uncoupled  case;  however,  the  feedback 
process  does  allow  the  two  levels  to  intersect,  predicting 


40 


the  formation  of  a  thin  cloud  deck.  In  time  this  cools  the 
atmosphere  by  cloud  top  radiation,  allowing  the  stratus  deck 
to  thicken  as  the  inversion  and  LCL  heights  diverge.  This 
case  is  obviously  quite  different  from  the  uncoupled  case, 
and  it  would  result  in  a  markedly  different  forecast. 

C.   COUPLED  MODEL  VARYING  MIXED  LAYER  DEPTH  RESULTS 

As  noted  earlier,  this  model  is  useful  in  that  it  not 
only  provides  a  24-hour  local  forecast  but  conditions  can  be 
varied  and  examined  for  their  effect  on  the  output.  A  couple 
of  "what  if"  circumstances  will  be  examined  for  the  current 
problem.  First,  "what  if  during  local  maneuvers  of  the  task 
force  an  ocean  front  is  crossed  and  the  mixed  layer  is 
suddenly  10  meters  deep  rather  than  the  current  2  meters?" 
Will  this  affect  the  model  output?  Examining  Figure  11,  the 
new  MLD  is  evident  with  the  same  strong  temperature  gradient 
as  in  the  previous  case.  Changes  in  surface  temperature  no 
longer  have  the  strong  effect  on  MLD  previously  noted.  This 
is  correct  as  the  heat  capacity  of  a  10  meter  mixed  layer  is 
much  greater  than  that  of  a  2  meter  mixed  layer.  The  near 
surface  heating  which  took  place  in  the  previous  case  late  in 
the  period  is  also  repeated  in  this  case.  A  time  variance  of 
the  surface  MLD  is  shown  graphically  in  the  lower  panel  of 
Figure  12.  The  same  wind  speed  profile  as  used  in  the  two 
previous  cases  is  evident.  Of  interest  is  the  large  variance 
in  the  specific  humidity  profile. 

41 


TCrrCRflTDRE  TEMPCRPTURE  TEflPERRTURE 

IS       IS      20      22  18       18       20      22  IS       IS       20      22 
0  I        I        'II   I        I        I 


19G0 


2X0 


•ICO 


TT^lRPTURE  TEfiPERHTURC  TEW»D»flTURE 

IS       18      20      2i  IS       IB       20      22  IS       IS       20      23 

3  I  i  i    i     m    i 


900 


MOO 


1900 


Figure  11. 


OBL  Forecast  With  Initial  MLD  Set  at  10  Meters, 
All  Other  Input  Values  are  Held  Constant 


42 


800 


en 


o 

LJ 

en 


4  - 


2- 


E     -5-» 

X 
fc-1 

&   -io 


25  + 
0 


8  12  16 

HOURS  AFTER  STRRT 


20 


INVIL1NE) 
LCLlDASH) 


RIR  TEMP(LINE) 
SEfl  TEMP (DASH  J 


SPEC  HUM 


NINO  SPEED 


MIXED  LAYER  CEPTH 


2A 


Figure   12. 


Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 
Varying  Initial  Sea  Surface  MLD  to  10  Meters 
Vice  Initial  Input  of  2  Meters 


43 


This  case  looks  identical  to  the  uncoupled  case  with  no 
humidity  decrease  as  in  the  previous  case.  The  air 
temperature  profile  also  matches  the  uncoupled  case  while  the 
SST  has  the  same  trends  as  in  the  coupled  case.  The 
amplitude  of  variance  is  much  less  in  this  case,  and  the  SST 
and  air  temperature  are  never  equal.  As  discussed  before, 
heat  and  moisture  are  being  transferred  into  the  atmosphere. 
However,  prior  to  the  two  temperatures  becoming  equal,  the 
effects  of  solar  radiation  upon  the  SST  cause  the  two 
temperatures  to  diverge  again.  The  LCL  and  inversion  plots 
also  have  the  same  general  characteristics  of  the  uncoupled 
model.  The  only  difference  is  the  slight  divergence  of  the 
two  heights  late  in  the  period  which  results  in  no  clouds 
being  formed  during  the  period. 

D.   COUPLED  MODEL  VARYING  WIND  SPEED  RESULTS 

The  second  "what  if"  case  to  be  examined  is  one  in  which 
the  wind  speed  is  varied.  What  if  the  winds  increased  from 
the  current  conditions  to  10  knots  late  in  the  period?  As 
shown  in  Figure  13,  the  extra  mixing  reduces  the  SST  rapidly 
and  drives  the  MLD  down  much  more  rapidly  than  in  the  pre- 
vious cases.  The  early  temperature  reduction  is  much  stronger 
than  in  previous  cases.  There  is  no  near  surface  heating 
late  in  the  period  which  occurred  in  both  of  the  coupled 
cases  examined  previously.  The  rapid  decrease  in  MLD  is  again 


44 


TEMPEPflTURE  TEMPERATURE  TEMPERRTURf 

IS  t7.S  SO  22.5  IS  17.5  20  22. SIS  17.5  20  22.  S 


1900 


2300 


400 


TEMPERATURE  TEWERfflURE  TEMPERATURE 

15  17.5  20  22.S  IS  17. 5  2D  22.5  IS  17. S  20  22.5 

0  I  III 


Figure    13. 


OBL  24-Hour  Forecast  With  Wind  Speed  Increasing 
from  4  to  10  Knots  in  the  Forecast  Period 


45 


shown  graphically  in  the  lower  panel  of  Figure  14.   The  slow 
increase  in  wind  speed  is  depicted  in  the  next  panel. 

The  specific  humidity  has  the  same  general  trends  shown 
in  Figure  10;  however,  the  gradients  are  much  steeper  early 
in  the  period  and  fall  off  rapidly  when  clouds  begin  to  form. 
The  increased  wind  speed  allows  the  heat  and  moisture  to  be 
transferred  into  the  atmosphere  much  faster  than  in  the 
previous  cases.  This  increased  mixing  is  also  apparent  in 
the  rapid  convergence  of  the  sea  surface  and  air  tempera- 
tures. Also,  the  SST  shows  a  continual  decrease  throughout 
the  period  as  heat  is  transferred  out  of  the  water  creating 
convective  turbulence  in  the  upper  ocean.  However,  the  early 
formation  of  clouds  effectively  reduces  the  incoming  short 
wave  radiation  which  would  heat  the  sea  surface. 

Cloud  top  cooling  affects  the  MABL  temperature  between  6 
and  10  hours  into  the  forecast  period.  However,  this  effect 
is  negated  by  the  trapping  of  heat  in  the  boundary  layer 
between  the  stratus  deck  and  the  sea  surface.  This  effect  is 
apparent  during  the  latter  half  of  the  model  run.  The  inver- 
sion height  moves  above  the  LCL  almost  immediately  after  the 
first  increase  in  wind  speed.  As  the  wind  increases,  the 
depth  of  the  stratus  layer  also  increases.  While  the  initial 
cloud  top  cooling  does  lower  the  LCL  slightly,  the  surface 
heating  quickly  overcomes  this  effect.  This  causes  the  LCL 
to  rise  late  in  the  period  and  affects  cloud  base  height. 


46 


1500 


INV(LINE) 
LCLlDflSH) 


AIR  TEMP (LINE  J 
SCR  TEMP(DBSH) 


SPEC  HUM 


WIND  SPEED 


MIXED  LAYER  DEPTH 


HOURS  RFTER  START 


Figure   14. 


Coupled  Air  Sea  Boundary  Layer  24-Hour  Forecast 
Varying  Wind  Speed  from  4  to  10  Knots  in  the 
Forecast  Period 


47 


V.   RESULTS  AND  CONCLUSIONS 

While  no  verification  data  exist  to  indicate  which  of  the 
above  forecasts  was  most  correct,  the  primary  goal  of  showing 
the  utilization  of  the  model  has  been  demonstrated.  As  with 
any  computer  generated  product,  the  forecast  generated  is  a 
direct  reflection  of  the  quality  of  the  initialization  data. 
The  finest  computer  model  will  generate  poor  output  given 
poor  input.  The  requirement  for  more  man-machine  cooperation 
with  this  model  is  such  that,  with  the  use  of  a  little  common 
sense  and  some  meteorological  theory,  the  program  should 
prove  useful  to  the  naval  geophysic is t.  Operating  in  data 
space  regions  and  often  adverse  communications  areas  the 
ability  to  use  local  conditions  as  inputs  to  a  locally 
generated  forecast  should  improve  forecaster  performance. 

In  the  numerous  runs  which  have  been  completed  the 
performance  of  the  model  has  proven  to  be  at  least  a  good 
predictor  of  trends.  While  often  little  difference  exists 
between  the  coupled  and  uncoupled  model  outputs  it  is  those 
cases  which  are  critical  to  naval  operations  that  the 
difference  is  appreciable.  Regions  of  fog  and  stratus 
formation  is  one  of  these  circumstances.  The  formation  of 
fog  can  be  critical  to  the  ability  of  naval  aircraft  being 
able  to  accomplish  their  mission. 


48 


EM/EO  propogation  is  strongly  affected  by  changes  in  the 
temperature  and/or  humidity  profiles.  The  ability  for  a  task 
force  screen  to  properly  guard  a  carrier  or  for  a  task  force 
to  remain  hidden  from  enemy  radar  lies  in  its  ability  to 
properly  use  the  environment.  Changes  in  the  MLD  and  the 
subsequent  focusing  or  ducting  of  sound  can  be  used  to  find 
enemy  targets  as  well  as  to  hide  convoy  noise  from  these  same 
forces. 

Improvements  in  model  input  techniques  and  coupling  of 
output  from  this  model  to  IREPS  would  provide  an  improved 
package.  Making  inputs  as  straight  forward  and  non- 
subjective  as  possible  will  aid  the  fleet  operator  in 
obtaining  a  useful  product  for  presentation  purposes.  Having 
an  onboard  capability  to  produce  short  range  single  station 
forecasts  should  help  the  environmentalists  in  better  serving 
fleet  operations.  Through  proper  use  of  the  Air-Sea  Boundary 
Layer  Model  and  other  environmental  data,  the  trust  in 
forecasts  presented  should  improve,  and  the  readiness  of 
other  fleet  units  will  improve  by  the  efforts  of  the  entire 
geophysics  community. 


49 


LIST  OF  REFERENCES 


1.  Davidson,  K.  L.,  Fairall,  C.  W.,  Boyle,  P.J.  and 
Schacher,  G.  E.,  "Verification  of  an  Atmospheric  Mixed- 
Layer  Model  for  a  Coastal  Region",  submitted,  CA,  39 
pp.,  Journal  of  Applied  Meteorology,  1983,  28  pp. 

2.  Fleagle,  R.  G.  and  Businger,  J.  A.,  An  Introduction  to 
Atmospheric  Physics,  New  York,  New  York:  Academic  Press, 
1978. 

3.  Garwood,  R.  W. ,  Jr.,  "An  Ocean  Mixed  Layer  Model  Capable 
of  Simulating  Cyclic  States",  Journal  of  Physical 
Oceanography,  1977,  7_,  455-468. 

4.  Gleason,  J.  P.,  S_i  ng_l.e__2S  _ta  t__io_H  Assessments  o_f  the 
S_Yno£t^c-Sca  l^e  For_£_ing_  on  the  Marine  A__tlH2:2.p_he  _r  ic 
Boundary  Layer ,  Master's  Thesis,  Naval  Postgraduate 
School,  Monterey,  CA,  1982. 

5.  Laevastu,  T. ,  "Factors  Affecting  the  Temperature  of 
Surface  Layer  of  the  Ocean",  Soc.  Scient. ,  Femica. 
Comment-Physico.-Mathem.  ,  1960,  25_(1)  ,  1-136. 

6.  Naval  Postgraduate  School  Report  63-81-004,  A  Review  and 
Evaluation  of  Integrated  Atmospher  ic  Boundary-Layer 
Mode_ls_,  by  Fairall,  C.  W.,  Davidson,  K.  L.,  and 
Schacher,  G.  E.,  1981. 

7.  NOAA  Technical  Report  NMFS  SSRF-696,  Large  Scale  Air-Sea 
Interactions  at  Ocean  Station  V,  by  Husby,  D.  M.  and 
Seckel,  G.  R. ,  1978. 

8.  O'Loughlin,  Michael  Charles,  Formulation  of  a  Prototype 
Coupled  Atmospher  ic  and  Oceanic  Boundary  Layer  Model, 
Master's  Thesis,  Naval  Postgraduate  School,  Monterey, 
CA,  1982. 

9.  Seckel,  G.  R.  and  Beaudry,  F.  H.,  "The  Radiation  from 
Sun  and  Sky  Over  the  North  Pacific  Ocean",  EOS,  Trans. 
Am.  Geophys.  Union,  1973,  5_4,  1114. 

10.  Slingo,  A.,  Nichols,  S.  and  Wrench,  C.  L.,  "A  Field 
Study  of  Nocturnal  Stratocumulus:  III.  High  Resolution 
Radiative  and  Microphysical  Observations",  Quart.  J.  R. 
Met.  Soc,  1981,  108,  145-166. 


50 


11.  Stage,  S.  A.  and  Businger,  J.  A.,  "A  Model  for 
Entrainment  into  a  Cloud-Topped  Marine  Boundary  Layer — 
Part  I:  Model  Description  and  Application  to  a  Cold  Air 
Outbreak  Episode",  Journal  of  Atmospheric  Science,  1981, 
3J3,  2230-2242. 

12.  Tabata,  S.,  A  Study_  of  the  MajLn  Phy_s_!£a_i  Z££tor_s_ 
Governing  the  Oceanographic  Conditions  of  Station  P  in 
the  Northwest  Pacific  Ocean,  Ph.D.  Thesis,  University  of 
Tokyo,  Tokyo,  Japan,-  1964. 

13.  Tennekes,  H.  and  Dreidonks,  A.  G.  M.,  "Basic  Entrainment 
Equations  for  the  Atmospheric  Boundary  Layer",  Boundary 
Layer  Meteorology,  1981,  20_,  515-531. 


51 


INITIAL  DISTRIBUTION  LIST 


No  .  Copies 


1.  Defense  Technical  Information  Center  2 
Cameron  Station 

Alexandria,  VA  22314 

2.  Library,    Code  0142  2 
Naval    Postgraduate    School 

Monterey,    CA     93943 

3.  Professor   R.   J.    Renard,    Code   63Rd  1 
Naval    Postgraduate    School 

Monterey,   CA     93943 

4.  Professor  C.N.K..    Mooers,   Code   68Mr  1 
Naval    Postgraduate    School 

Monterey,   CA     93943 

5.  Professor   K.    L.   Davidson,    Code   63Ds  4 
Naval    Postgraduate    School 

Monterey,   CA     93943 

6.  Professor   R.   W.   Garwood,    Code   68Gd  4 
Naval    Postgraduate    School 

Monterey,   CA     93943 

7.  LCDR  Gary  L.    Tarbet  4 
113   Gallant   Fox   Road 

Virginia  Beach,   VA     23462 


Thesis 

T1383 

c.l 


Target 

Development  of  a 
microcomputer  coupled 
Atmospheric  and  Oceanic 
Boundary  Layer  predic- 
tion model. 


21   U 


c:7 


Thesis 

T1383 

c.i 


Tarbet 

Development  of  a 
microcomputer  coupled 
Atmospheric  and  Oceanic 
Boundary  Layer  predic- 
tion model.