Uchida et al.,
Kuroshio transport south of Japan estimated from in situ oceanographic data and satellite altimeter data

ASUKA
The Kuroshio is the western boundary current of the North Pacific subtropical gyre (Fig. 1). In situ oceanographic observations along a line crossing the Kuroshio south of Japan were carried out by the Affiliated Surveys of the Kuroshio off Cape Ashizuri (ASUKA) Group. The observation line was chosen to coincide with a satellite track of the altimeter satellite TOPEX/POSEIDON (Fig. 1). From October 1993 to November 1995, moored current meters were maintained and repeated hydrographic sections were carried out in order to estimate upper layer velocities, which cannot be measured adequately by those moored instruments (Fig. 2).

Fig. 1.
The ASUKA Group Kuroshio observation line across the Kuroshio south of Japan. Moored current meter observations, repeated hydrographic observations were carried out from October 1993 to November 1995. This line was chosen to coincide with a satellite track of TOPEX/POSEIDON. Schematic flow patterns of the Kuroshio and its recirculation south of Japan are also shown.
Fig. 2.
Vertical distribution of moored instruments including current meters (CM), upward-looking ADCP's and IES's. Also shown are locations of nominal hydrographic stations (AS1-AS26).


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