Log Post: Converging on a Point

Science is a process of discovery. There is so much about the world that we do not know; discoveries can be made just about anywhere. Some scientists never have to leave the comforts of their own laboratory as their study subjects may be locally distributed, or they can access information from satellites and other data … Continued

Log Post: Underway

After a very long and unanticipated delay, we are underway and headed towards the Guaymas Basin, located in middle of the Gulf of California. The Gulf of California, one of the most intriguing places I have worked, is home to deeply interesting and fascinating seafloor habitats. In this actively rifting, young ocean basin, the East … Continued

Log Post: AUV Sirius: A profile

In nautical terms, a “flagship” is the lead ship in a fleet of vessels. Usually it is the largest, fastest, most heavily armed, or best known of the group. The HMS Sirius was the flagship in a fleet that set out in 1787 from England to establish the first European colony in New South Wales, … Continued

Cruise: Observing Seafloor Methane Seeps at the Edge of Hydrate Stability

Methane is a more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide, but exists at far lower concentrations in the atmosphere. Many think of methane as a free-floating gas so it can be a surprise to learn that nearly one-fifth of the Earth’s methane is stored beneath the ocean’s waters in marine sediments in the form of gas hydrate.

Person: Jay Lunden

Jay is a 5th year Ph.D. student in the Biology Department at Temple University. His research focuses on the effects of ocean acidification (OA) on the cold-water coral Lophelia pertusa. Jay is interested in how OA affects calcification and other physiological processes, and hopes to expand this line of research in his future academic career. … Continued

Log Post: Catch those nauplii!

I sit awkwardly, muscles tensed, waiting for my target to float into view. My weapon, a glass pipette, poised to strike. Suddenly something gently glides into view, looking deceptively relaxed, with its’ six legs splayed wide, gently feeling the water currents. I slide the pipette carefully into the water, quietly sneaking upon the baby zooplankton … Continued

Log Post: The Plastics of the Southwest Pacific

Plastics of varying size, quantity, type, and origin have been found in the ocean, from surface waters through the water column to deep-sea sediments. There are five large offshore plastic accumulation zones in the subtropical gyres of the ocean. The largest is in the North Pacific – the ‘Great Pacific Garbage Patch’ – which has … Continued