Successful launch of the CarICOOS Data Buoy A
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CariCOOS Data Buoy A was launched from the barge “M/V Don Alejandro José Padilla” near the Puerto Rico insular shelf break about 1.4 nautical miles south-southeast of Caja de Muertos Island on June 9 2009 at 17° 51.61’N 66° 31.43’ W. The data is undergoing quality control and will be available online shortly. As of June 13, all sensors were performing adequately. However issues with regard to wind direction persist and will be attended shortly.
Emplacement of the buoy was made possible through the collaboration of many persons and entities. The Physical Oceanography Group at University of Maine designed, fabricated and tested the buoy, assisted in buoy emplacement and continues to provide technical support. The University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez provided administrative and logistical support throughout the process. The Port of Ponce hosted preparatory activities and the commissioning ceremony. The Maritime Police Unit of the Ponce Municipal Police provided navigational assistance for buoy emplacement. The office of the Resident Commissioner before Congress, the Honorable Pedro Pierluisi, coordinated protocol for the commissioning ceremony. The First Lady of Puerto Rico, Lucé Vela, graciously performed the commissioning honors breaking the traditional champagne bottle. Thanks also to all those who attended the ceremony including the Director of the NOAA-IOOS program, the Congressional District Officer, representatives of Federal and State Agencies, the University of the Virgin Islands, and other friends of CaRA/CariCOOS.  |