Cruise Plan
SeaSoar Test Cruise
R/V Robert G. Sproul
12-14 September, 1995


The purpose of this cruise is to test the SeaSoar towed vehicle, and
to deploy and recover two modified ALACE floats.

Summary of SeaSoar system and operations:
The SeaSoar is towed on several hundred meters of faired conducting
cable, and is equipped with a CTD.  The CTD data will be acquired and
displayed in real time.  We use a winch specially designed to handle
the faired cable, which requires 440 VAC at 11 A.  The ship's A-frame
is used for deployment and recovery of the SeaSoar.  An important goal
is to make measurements of the drag and lift of the vehicle and cable.

The area of operation is to be the closest spot that is at least 1000 m
deep and that allows several hours of towing in a straight line at 8 kts.
This area will be chosen in consultation with the Captain.

Summary of ALACE operations:
ALACEs are autonomous subsurface floats of 50 lbs. weight, 3 ft.
height, and 6 in. diameter.  The two ALACEs are to be deployed as soon
as we reach our area of operation.  They will float independently for
the duration of the cruise.  The ALACEs will return to the surface and
be recovered just prior to returning to port.

Schedule:

12 Sep
0800  Depart Point Loma
PM    Deploy ALACEs
      Deploy SeaSoar

13 Sep
      Tow SeaSoar

14 Sep
AM    Recover SeaSoar
      Recover ALACEs
1700  Arrive Point Loma