Comparative Analysis of Wave Data Observed from the Wave Glider System and Satellites

Kim, T. and Lee, J., 2024. Comparative analysis of wave data observed from the wave glider system and satellites. In: Phillips, M.R.; Al-Naemi, S., and Duarte, C.M. (eds.), Coastlines under Global Change: Proceedings from the International Coastal Symposium (ICS) 2024 (Doha, Qatar). Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 113, pp. 553-557. Charlotte (North Carolina), ISSN 0749-0208 Offshore wave data are crucial for model verification and as boundary conditions for coastal wave models. However, obtaining these measurements using buoy systems or ocean tower stations is complex. Notably, the offshore of the East Sea lacks in-situ observational data to use as model boundary conditions or to validate satellite observations, which motivated the deployment of a wave glider system. This system was operated from October 16, 2015, to October 21, 2016, and from January 2, 2017, to March 31, 2017, in the East Sea (130.9°E and 36.48°N). The wave glider measured wave heights, periods, and directions at 30-minute intervals. This study evaluates the quality of the wave data collected by the wave glider and assesses its feasibility for use in the East Sea. Significant wave heights from available satellite data were compared with those from the wave glider, and the wave directional spectrum was analyzed during high wave conditions. Accurate offshore wave observations enable more precise estimation of external forces impacting the coast.