Overview

The purpose of this project is to develop a three-dimensional, multi-scale, community ocean model. The scope of the development ranges from tide (wave) models to basin-scale circulation models. The model domains will cover the entire North Pacific Ocean with 1/4° horizontal grid resolution and down to the surrounding seas in the vicinity of Taiwan with 1/128° horizontal resolution. A three-year plan is proposed. The major tasks for the first year are listed in the following. (1) Establishing computing facilities, manpower and observational database; (2) developing the prototypes of 3-D, 1/12°, 51 sigma-layers tide and 1/4°, 26 z-levels North Pacific circulation models independently; and (3) conducting the required observations including tidal sea level measurement and drifter observation for the model validations. In the second and following years, the main tasks are (1) performing further model development to improve the accuracy and resolution, and (2) offering the model products online and improving the model dynamic along with the development. The associated drifting trajectory and contaminant dispersion models will be incorporated to the system. It is expected that associated investigators could gain substantial modeling experience through the project. The ultimate goal aims to build a public-released oceanic model for general oceanographic community and enhance Taiwan's ocean nowcasting/forecasting ability.