Susy, Seascan, and other acoustical contraptions

In the early 1990s, the acoustical oceanography research group, led by Dr. David Farmer, developed several high-frequency sonar platforms for near-surface oceanography. These platforms, suspended approximately 25 m below the surface, typically supported six frequencies of upward-looking echo-sounders and up to four steerable 100 kHz sidescan sonars. Additionally, the SUSY platform had four extensible arms, 4.5 m in length, each supporting a wideband hydrophone. The platforms had sufficient batteries and data recording for up to 40 hours of autonomous operation, which could be extended through scheduled on/off periods. The intent of these platforms was to investigate properties of near-surface bubble due to breaking waves, with additional Doppler velocity measurements of surface waves and convective circulations. These platforms were also used for other studies, such as tidal convergence zones and ship wakes. The SEACAN platform was also used to assess zooplankton and fish populations in lake in Japan. This presentation will review key field trials and scientific achievements generated through use of these platforms.