E-ASAP (Automated Shipboard Aerological Programme)
 

to look at the "Quick Time Player" (download free) sequence about the E-ASAP container-launcher installed on the boat "SEALAND ACHIEVER" since August 2001, Click on this picture

The E-ASAP container-launcher installed on the boat "SEALAND PERFORMANCE" since July 2003

 
Objectives
The objective of the EUMETNET-ASAP (E-ASAP) Programme is to satisfy EUCOS requirements and to improve the cost/efficiency by integrated management of the existing national systems.
Requirements
To
A.
 integrate the existing national systems and procure new ones to reach a total of 5800 soundings (from 18 ships) onto the GTS by HH+100.
B.
 optimise the overall system and reduce the average cost of a sounding.
C. integrate the sounding operations of OWS-Mike and Ekofisk.
D. contribute to the World Weather Watch of WMO through a limited number of soundings produced outside the EUCOS area of interest.
 
Programme Tasks :
  • to design the E-ASAP Programme to meet the requirements, and in particular identify suitable merchant ships,
  • to negotiate and conclude contracts in association with NMSs as appropriate with the shipping companies,
  • to procure the necessary equipment,
  • to ensure proper installation, training and logistics for the supply of consumables,
  • to establish means of communication, insertion on the GTS and monitoring of performance,
  • to liaise with the other components of the EUCOS programme and with the WMO ASAP Co-ordinating Committee.
Organisation
The Danish Meteorological Institute (1999-2001) and DWD (2002) were responsible for the pilot phase of E-ASAP.
The DWD is Responsible Member for the Operational E-ASAP since 2003.
The Programme Manager is Rudolf Krockauer (Rudolf.Krockauer(at)dwd.de)
 
Updated : 18 June 2008