Abstract
This paper introduces the new eddy-resolving global Simple Ocean Data
Assimilation version 4 (SODA4) ocean/sea ice reanalysis. As with its
predecessor SODA3, sequential data assimilation is used to constrain the
evolving temperature and salinity fields using World Ocean Database
profiles, in-situ and satellite sea surface temperature observations,
and sea ice thickness estimates as constraints. The numerical model is
based on NOAA/Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory MOM5.1/SIS1 numerics
with nominal l/10° horizontal resolution, and 75 levels in the vertical.
Surface forcing is provided by a bias-corrected version of the European
Center for Medium Range Weather Forecasts ERA5 forcing, while
continental discharge is provided by a separate monthly
observation-based discharge dataset. A 13-year (2010-2022) reanalysis
experiment (SODA4.15.2) is compared to the coarser resolution, but
otherwise similar SODA3.15.2 and to assimilated and independent
observations. These comparisons show that the greatest reduction in time
mean bias occurs near strong fronts, which become narrower and stronger.
Eddy variability is increased, increasing eddy heat transport. Improved
vertical resolution produces shallow summer temperature and salinity
stratification which is most noticeable in midlatitudes and the eastern
tropical Pacific and Atlantic in Northern Hemisphere winter.