The Harvard open ocean model: Calibration and application to dynamical process, forecasting, and data assimilation studies (Q1819633)

The physical basis and numerical algorithm of the Harvard open ocean model is reviewed with emphasis on those details which are important to the application of the model. A summary of the validation and calibration of the model is presented focusing upon the studies which guide the selection of model parameters. A related analysis scheme for energy and vorticity is summarized and the use of this scheme is demonstrated. The design and application of numerical simulations and some salient results of these studies are considered. An example of real data initialization is provided using the POLYMODE Mark II data set. Further examples of real data initialization, including altimeter data, demonstrate: (i) the capability of the model as a dynamical interpolation, nowcasting, and forecasting tool, and (ii) the power of the combined model-energy and vorticity analysis as a tool for the physical interpretation of real oceanic flow processes.