Development of the rapidly deployable HF radar for oil spill response

CodarNor A/S and CODAR Ocean Sensors have developed a rapidly deployable unit for SeaSonde HF Radar systems that, during a spill event, could provide ocean surface current maps and wave parameters to spill responders in near real-time. In September 2010, as part of a spill response exercise, this rapid deployment capability was successfully demonstrated by delivering, via helicopter, a unit that would provide continuous near real-time currents for a two-week period on autonomous power. All data were made available in real-time to the Norwegian Meteorological Institute for use in their oil drift forecast service. Subsequent to the demonstration, hardware development has improved the prototype for operational use, a short-term predictive (STP) capability has been implemented and a rapid response service template has been developed for use worldwide.