Abstract
Combining ocean model data and in situ Lagrangian data, I show that an array of surface drifting buoys tracked by a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), such as the Global Drifter Program, could provide estimates of global mean sea level (GMSL) and its changes, including linear decadal trends. For a sustained array of 1,250 globally distributed buoys with a standardized design, I demonstrate that GMSL decadal linear trend estimates with an uncertainty less than 0.3 mm yr−1 could be achieved with GNSS daily random error of 1.6 m or less in the vertical direction. This demonstration assumes that controlled vertical position measurements could be acquired from drifting buoys, which is yet to be demonstrated. Development and implementation of such measurements could ultimately provide an independent and resilient observational system to infer natural and anthropogenic sea level changes, augmenting the ongoing tide gauge and satellites records.
Key Points
A simulation of a new global mean sea level observing system based on drifting buoys is conducted
The proposed system could measure global mean sea level with an accuracy comparable to altimetry
A trend error below 0.3 mm yr−1 is achievable for vertical position accuracy better than 1.6 m
