Current measurements with surface and subsurface drifters

An examination of behaviors of a subsurface drogue and a subsequent examination of current measurement with a drifter comprising the drogue as its important part are made in the channel between Oshima and Izu Peninsula. The drogue submerged to the anticipated depth of 300 m within 10 minutes after launching. Since then the drogue kept its depth and operated normally. From the comparison with the velocity measurement by the use of a currentmeter moored at a station in the vicinity of the drifter's track, it is verified that the drifter's motion well reflects the motion of a water parcel around the drogue.