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How to adopt a drifter
Track A Drifter
Background
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How to Deploy a Drifter
Let's Dissect a Drifter
Drifters and Hurricanes
Glossary
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Adopt A Drifter
How to Deploy a Drifter
Let's Dissect a Drifter
Drifters and Hurricanes
Glossary
Track a Drifter
Global Drifter Map
Ocean Currents Map
Resources
Information on Currents
Teacher at Sea
Interview with Scientists
Sea Surface Temperature Images
Drifter Information
Contact Us
FAQ
NOAA'S Adopt A Drifter Program
INTERACT/HOW TO:
adopt a drifter
invitation to adopt a drifter
track a drifter
how to deploy a drifter
OUR MISSION:
to establish scientific partnerships between schools around the world and engage students in activities and communication about ocean climate science.
WHAT IS A DRIFTER:
A drifter, or drifting buoy, is a piece of scientific equipment that collects data on the ocean’s surface. Drifters allow scientists to track ocean currents, changes in temperature, salinity, and other important components of the ocean’s surface as they float freely and transmit information.
The technology within a drifting buoy that allows it to gather and share information is powered by batteries in the dome of the buoy. Attached to the dome is a drogue, which resembles a long cylindrical tail, that allows the buoy to be pulled by ocean currents beneath the surface, not just pushed by winds from above. For a better understanding of the structure of drifters, visit the “
Dissect a Drifter
” page!)
RECENT DRIFTER DEPLOYMENT:
Bancroft Arnesen Explore & Roald Amundsen High School Deployment