SOI-led Sessions at 2024 Ocean Sciences Meeting
Wikipedia Edit-a-thon & Town Hall
Women and non-binary persons are under-represented in Ocean science, and their accomplishments are shared even less. This Wikipedia Edit-a-thon is a collaboration between MTS/IEEE and SOI and will empower volunteers who want to contribute to promoting the accomplishments of women and non-binary individuals in Ocean science by increasing their online presence. Participants will receive training in Wikipedia editing and then will edit, add, or translate Wikipedia entries for women and non-binary individuals working in this field. The event will also feature special guest speakers who will share inspiring stories about their careers in Ocean science.
Turbulent Seas Town Hall
Working with collaborating scientists, grantees, and funding institutions, this town hall will create a positive forum to provide guidance, support, and suggestions for universities, government offices, and non-profit organizations in the Ocean sciences on better support, inclusion, and retention of individuals with caregiving responsibilities. This session will follow the virtual gathering that took place online at the 2022 Ocean Science Meeting.
Session-ED011: Exploring Storytelling: Creating Waves of Change in Communication, Outreach, Social Media and the Arts for Ocean Sciences
Inspiring collaborations that exemplify the power of artistry intertwined with scientific inquiry will be shared in this session. Presentations will uncover the best practices in storytelling, unearthing the potential that lies at the intersection of art and science, and delve into uncharted pathways to captivate and educate the public.
Session DS006 – Unveiling Controls on the Establishment and Resilience of Mesophotic and Deep-sea Coral Ecosystems
This session will bring together a cross-disciplinary array of research, with presentations shedding light on the mechanisms and processes that may play a role in the physiology, ecology, and resilience of the inhabitants of mesophotic and deep-sea coral ecosystems. SOI will co-chair with 2023 R/V Falkor (too) alumni Santiago Herrera, and Colleen Hansel and others from the Smithsonian Institution and Georgia Institute of Technology.
Session DO006 – Enabling Open Ocean Data: Advances, Challenges, and Impact
Explore the advances and challenges in sharing and using open Ocean data for scientific research, development, and decision-making processes. Presenters in this session will focus on advancements and challenges, and present tools and ideas for enhancing the impact of shared data. SOI will co-chair this session with data experts from NASA, Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon, and Brandenburg University.
Session DO011-I: Ocean Data Pipelines: From Ship to Shore to Insight
Increasing data volumes and the proliferation of Ocean-based data collection platforms necessitate the development of efficient data pipelines, allowing for real-time and long-term data management and access. This session will focus on data lineage, governance, pipeline structure, real-time access, edge computing, open-source community collaboration, and cloud infrastructure. The goal is to gain a deeper understanding of tools, processes, and software solutions to optimize the management and utilization of oceanic data pipelines.
Galápagos Town Hall
Scientists and SOI crew presented to residents of Santa Cruz Island at the Darwin Research Station following the Hydrothermal Vents of the Western Galápagos and Vertical Reefs of the Galápagos expeditions. The first presentation for Hydrothermal Vents of the Western Galápagos was led by Stuart Banks, senior marine scientist for the Charles Darwin Station, who participated as an observer. One of SOI’s lead ROV Pilots, Jason Rodriguez, answered questions from the audience, which were translated via an interpreter. Seventy-five people attended the town hall to learn more about the outcomes of the expedition. Members of the science team led the second presentation for Vertical Reefs of the Galápagos expedition and 64 people attended.
R/V Falkor (too) Crew’s Galápagos Island Adventure
With a short amount of time available for relaxing while in the enchanting Galápagos Islands, the crew of R/V Falkor (too) did a little exploring. Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a stunning array of natural wonders and wildlife. Here are five places to visit if you ever find yourself there.
- Rancho El Chato – A Tortoise Haven
|First on the list is the Rancho El Chato, a tortoise reserve home to the iconic Galápagos giant tortoises. These gentle giants have been a symbol of the Galápagos Islands for centuries. Visitors can witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, observe their behavior, and even get up close and personal with them. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with one of the most iconic inhabitants of the Galápagos. - Charles Darwin Research Center – Preserving Ecosystems
The Charles Darwin Research Center is a vital institution dedicated to preserving the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands. Scientists work tirelessly to study and protect the islands’ flora and fauna. Visitors can learn about ongoing conservation efforts, explore informative exhibits, and gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role these islands played in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. - Tortuga Bay Beach – Paradise for Beach Lovers
Tortuga Bay Beach on Santa Cruz Island is a pristine stretch of sandy shoreline known for its beauty and tranquility. The beach boasts crystal-clear waters and a protected lagoon, perfect for snorkeling and kayaking. Visitors can immerse themselves in the underwater world of the Galápagos, encountering colorful marine life and exploring vibrant coral reefs. It’s a slice of paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. - Post Office Bay – A Unique Tradition
Step back in time and visit the iconic Post Office Bay on Floreana Island. This historic site carries on a tradition that dates back to the 1800s when whalers would leave messages for family and loved ones in a wooden barrel. Visitors can still participate in this quirky postal system by dropping off new letters and picking up those left behind by other travelers. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the island’s maritime history and a heartwarming tradition that continues to this day. - Puerto Villamil and Sierra Negra Volcano
A visit to Puerto Villamil on Isabela Island offers a charming glimpse of island life. This port town is the gateway to numerous adventures, including a hike to Sierra Negra, an active volcano. The hike rewards adventurers with breathtaking panoramic views of the island and a chance to witness the raw power of volcanic activity. It’s a thrilling experience for nature enthusiasts and hikers alike.
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Chapter 6 Newsletter – 2023 • Menu
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