Participation in validating the CAROLS airborne L band radiometer, during flights on ATR42. CTD/LADCP stations performed on repeated sections around the Bay of Biscay and calibration of CTD tags intended for deployment on sea elephants. The related projects are CAROLS, SMOS (TOSCA/CNES and ESA), EPIGRAM (LEFE/IDAHO).
-Validation of surface salinity measurements using drifting buoys. Three models of drifting buoys (17 buoys in all) were deployed in the Bay of Biscay on 2 April (R/V Thalassa trip) and on 2-3 May (COSMOS1 aboard Côtes de la Manche). This involved passing close to the buoys, taking samples, TSG measurements and CTD hauls to validate the data. Two sections taken by CTD probe in front structure eddy (for the CONGAS programme). Retrieval of a prototype PROVOR-CTS3 float deployed in May by the Côte d'Aquitaine vessel. 9 CTD sensors to be attached to elephant seals were tested (mounted on SBE25 CTD during profiles). This falls under the COSMOS project, headed by J. Boutin and G. Reverdin.