The multistatic oceanographic HF radar network in Toulon

Abstract

The Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO) and the University of Toulon operate a HF radar network for sea surface current monitoring in the Mediterranean Sea. This radar system was recently upgraded in the framework of the EU Interreg project SICOMAR-PLUS and is now running in a multistatic mode with 2 TX and 2 RX located on three distant sites. This original configuration combined with some innovations in the radar data processing allows for an increased coverage and improved spatiotemporal resolution of surface currents maps in the coastal region of Toulon. We present the main characteristics of this updated HF radar network together with a rapid overview of the specific processing techniques it requires. Preliminary results showing the potential performances of this network are presented.