Science Story – Microorganism Champions – Video Update

Microorganisms are the champions of changing the chemistry of ecosystems, and oftentimes they form exciting partnerships with one another to create new, unique types of chemistry that neither can do alone. Victoria Orphan is featured in the newest #PescaderoVentDiving2 expedition “Science Story,” explaining her background and passion in exploring seeps and hydrothermal vents. 

Climate Under Pressure – Video Premiere

This film premiered at the “Climate and the Deep Sea World” event and panel at The 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference, also known as COP26. The film examines deep-sea exploration and climate, and features compelling footage from a number of expeditions that took place on Schmidt Ocean Institute’s Research Vessel Falkor. “There is an … Continued

Heat Flow and Vent Chemistry – Video Update

“The Auka Vent Field is relatively close (to the JaichMaa’ja’ag field), so we were expecting to find similar readings. We were surprised to find out that the heat decays more rapidly and there seems to be a relation between biodiverse spots and warmer areas, even without hydrothermal vents.” The #PescaderoVentDiving2 science team explains the goals … Continued

Artist-At-Sea – Conversing with Rocks – Video Update

“I believe observation trigger the creative process. Science and art are both creative and require observation. They compliment each other as ways to ask questions about nature.” Artist-at-Sea Ale de la Puente discusses her methods, approach, and excitement in working with the #PescaderoVentDiving2 crew on board R/V Falkor. 

Tectonics and Mapping – Video Update

“Our aim is to acquire high-resolution images of the seafloor so we can better interpret all of the tectonic processes related to the ongoing opening of the Gulf of California along this region.” Leg One of the #PescaderoVentDiving2 expedition is all about tectonics and mapping. In this video, researchers on R/V Falkor explain what they … Continued

Designing the Future 2 – 4K ROV Highlights – Video Update

“Creating one new deep-sea instrument that can operate successfully in the field is hard enough to accomplish. This project took technology development to the next level and ultimately involved four different complex systems. I am proud to say after ten days at sea, these four pieces of equipment worked in concert with each other to … Continued

Applying Technologies – Video Update

“This cruise is the first science mission where we are applying those technologies to really try and tackle these questions about how can you more efficiently discover life in the ocean.” Take a look behind the scenes at the #DesigningTheFuture2 expedition and its exciting technologies. 

Falkor (too) FAQ

SHIP FAQ 1. Why is the vessel named Falkor (too)? To continue on the theme of the German fantasy novel, The Neverending Story, which served as the inspiration for our first research vessel, this research vessel is named Falkor (too), as it will continue the never-ending journey of the Schmidt Ocean Institute in its mission … Continued

ROV FAQs

Remotely operated vehicle (ROV) SuBastian is recovered after a 13-hour dive. The ROV is connected to the ship via a tether that allows the robot to be piloted and transfers power, data, and video feeds. What is an ROV? ROV stands for Remotely Operated Vehicle. It is an underwater robot, sometimes known as a remote-controlled … Continued