Observations of and a new model for fetch-limited wave growthThe Surface Contour Radar (SCR) is a 36-GHz computer-controlled airborne radar which generates a false-color coded elevation map of the sea surface below the aircraft in real time. In the present paper, SCR observations are discussed which demonstrate the existence of a full developed sea state. These observations are used to judge the validity of growth rates for fetch-limited wave spectrum development and lead to new refinements in the modeling of wave generation by wind. It is noted that the observations have resolved an apparent paradox in the JONSWAP and Donelan et al. (1985) fetch-limited algorithms.
Document ID
19870065989
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Walsh, E. J. (NASA Wallops Flight Center Wallops Island, VA, United States)
Hancock, D. W., III (NASA Wallops Flight Center Wallops Island, VA, United States)
Hines, D. E. (NASA Wallops Flight Center Wallops Island, VA, United States)
Swift, R. N. (NASA Wallops Flight Center Wallops Island, VA, United States)
Scott, J. F. (EG&G Washington Analytical Services Center Inc., Pocomoke City, MD, United States)