Limited capability buoy: An automatically moored or free drifting ocean data platform

Four ocean data buoy platforms are presently undergoing sea trial tests in the Gulf of Mexico. These buoys, at intervals, take limited and selected meteorological and oceanographic sensor data measurement, and automatically transmit these data at preprogrammed intervals (or upon request) to a landbased receiving, processing and distribution center. One basic platform design plus add-ons provide a small and versatile platform that is capable of meeting both moored (depths from 800 to 24,000 feet) or free drifting ocean data platform requirements. The buoys are presently equipped with an HF radio link; however, the system has been designed so that it may be readily converted for use with a satellite relay UHF communication link. Sufficient space is provided on-board the buoy for a primary power source that will maintain a moored platform at sea for a period of six months, and a drifter at sea for a period of three months.