Unprecedented exploration of the biodiversity of the Pacific Ocean thermal dome
Launched in 2000, the Argo program aims to create a global network of 3,000 autonomous floats capable of collecting real-time information on the state of the ocean between the surface and at least 2,000 meters deep.
Most of the devices he uses only record temperature and salinity. But some, called BCG (for biogeochemical ), also measure the pH of the water, its concentration of chlorophyll, nitrate, oxygen as well as the light available for photosynthesis.
Launched by researchers from the Oceanography Laboratory of Villefranche-sur-Mer (Alpes-Maritimes) and the National University of Costa Rica, the Argo-Dome project (2024-2026) aims to develop an observation system adapted to the specific characteristics of the Eastern Tropical Pacific thermal dome and its possible management as a marine protected area. It provides for the deployment of eight beacons. In the fall, two Refine floats will join the two conventional Argo, two Deep Argo (capable of descending to depths of 4,000 meters), and two BCGs deployed since April.
Refine, a float packed with technology
Developed under a European Research Council (ERC) grant by the Villefranche-sur-Mer Oceanography Laboratory (LOV, CNRS-Sciences Sorbonne Université-IMEV), Refine is a new generation of Argo BGC floats equipped with underwater imagers and irradiance sensors.
Le Monde
