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Scientists use oceanographic and meteorological data from the TAO/TRITON array for research into the causes of El Niño (ENSO warm events) and La Niña (ENSO cold events). The data also are fed into computer models that can predict the development of El Niño and La Niña up to one year in advance. |
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ENSO
events significantly alter global weather patterns,
affecting the lives of millions around the world. They
also affect Pacific marine ecosystems and commercially
valuable fish stocks such as tuna and
anchovy. |
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Instruments and operation The array consists of NOAA TAO moorings in the
eastern and central Pacific and Japanese TRITON
moorings in the western Pacific. TAO/TRITON moorings
measure surface meteorological parameters, upper ocean
temperatures and, at some locations, ocean currents.
NOAA's new research ship, the KA'IMIMOANA, is dedicated
to servicing TAO moorings, with an annual operating
schedule of 250 days at sea. Significant shiptime is
contributed by Japan to maintain TRITON moorings in the
western Pacific. |
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Data display and access TAO/TRITON data can be downloaded from the web
or via anonymous FTP. Graphical dislays of the data are
provided in a variety of formats to illustrate the
ever-changing environmental conditions in the tropical
Pacific. |
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U.S. Dept. of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Weather Service National Data Buoy Center Bldg. 3205 Stennis Space Center, MS 39529 Contact Us Page last modified: Friday July 26, 2013 |
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