Field test of "ice-fence" for oceanographic observation in the sea-ice zone

Abstract

The powerful ice-breaking capability of the Japanese icebreaker Shirase raises the possibility of marine observations in the fast-ice and/or permanent ice zone; however, it has been difficult to use conventional equipment in such areas due to the risk of damage by sea-ice. The marine biological monitoring program in the sea-ice area off Syowa Station was started during the 52nd Japanese Antarctic Research Expedition to overcome the difficulties encountered when performing conventional oceanographic observations. The program employs ＂ice-fence＂ (diameter: 1000 mm, height: 700 mm, stainless-steel), which has been successful in protecting the observation equipment (e.g., plankton nets and CTDs) from damage by sea-ice. This report describes the results of field tests of the performance of ＂ice-fence＂ for oceanographic observations in sea-ice areas. Possible improvements to the system are also suggested.