The PIs request funding to study the capability, feasibility and cost of using the Research Platform FLIP (Floating Instrument Platform) to support development and implementation of the initial high performance spar buoy functions proposed for the Global component of the ORION program. This proposal initiates a study of the feasibility of using an existing spar buoy, FLIP, to demonstrate and provide this capability at an early time in the program. It will address two sequential forms of FLIP use - (1) as a platform that would be used for development and demonstration of interactive systems and spar buoy capabilities and (2) as an initial on-site, long-term, research support buoy.
Broader Impacts
The study should have a significant impact on directing development of buoys for the global network. It will directly benefit the design of the infrastructure that is expected to be funded as part of the OOI and the results of the work will be disseminated very quickly following the analysis work. The planned outreach efforts will capitalize on FLIP's recognition as a unique national asset to provide the greater scientific community and the general public with an increased knowledge of the ORION overall program objectives and the Global Component buoy efforts in particular.
