RV CIRLANA 05/1995: Low-Resolution CTD Data from the European Shelf

CEFAS research cruises collected this oceanographic data using a lowered CTD rosette system while vessels were stationary. The data broadly covers the European Shelf and the Iberian Abyssal Plain, with profiles from the surface to near the seabed. Early years primarily recorded Pressure, Temperature, and Conductivity, while later cruises added sensors like fluorometers and transmissometers.

Use Cases

• Calculate seawater salinity based on conductivity, temperature, and pressure using UNESCO formulations.
• Analyze vertical water column profiles for oceanographic research based on downcast CTD data.
• Study marine biogeochemistry based on later cruise data that includes fluorometer and optical backscatter measurements.
• Calibrate sensor readings using water samples collected from bottles fired on the upcast.

Strengths

• Data collection followed a standardized methodology using a lowered CTD rosette system on research vessels.
• The description specifies a clear geographic scope covering the European Shelf and Iberian Abyssal Plain.
• The data evolution is documented, noting core parameters and later additions like fluorometers.

Limitations

• Row count, file formats, and column-level documentation are unknown, limiting suitability assessment.
• The exact sensor configuration and data format vary between cruises, requiring manual inspection.
• Last update date is unknown; freshness is unverified.

Provenance

Source

CEFAS (Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science) research cruises.

Collection Method

Collected using a lowered CTD rosette system on stationary research vessels, with water samples taken for calibration.

Time Range

Includes data from at least May 1995.

Freshness

Data is from a 1995 cruise; the last update for the dataset record is unknown.

Geography

Broadly covers the European Shelf, with some data from the Iberian Abyssal Plain.