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MISSION BACKGROUND
THE 2005 EXPEDITION OBJECTIVES:
- Document grouper density and reproductive activities,
- Monitor and compare live coral cover, fish populations, and biodiversity in and outside the reserve areas.
- "Ground truth," or verify, a newly produced high-resolution multibeam sonar map of the region
- Collect samples of Oculina coral whose genetics will be analyzed back on land and compared against shallow water Oculina.
MISSION PARTICIPANTS
MAJOR SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT INCLUDE:
- NASA Support Ship: NASA/USA 170-foot Liberty Star or Freedom Star; berths for 12 scientists; includes advanced positioning systems to support ROV operations.
- Undersea Robot: NURC Phantom SII Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) with digital still camera/strobe and CCD color video camera.
- Grab Sampling: 400 lb. ponar type grab sampler, provided by USGS-Woods Hole.
- Acoustic Surveys: Passive acoustic hydrophone lowered over side of small boat to acquire sounds during day-night (dusk) period.
- Excursion support vessel: Florida's vessel CT Randall to visit the ship half-way through cruise to change-out science crew and provide opportunity for media, educators, and VIPs to visit ship.
OUTREACH AND EDUCATIONAL ACTIVITIES:
The following Oculina education and outreach activities and materials, including this @Sea coverage, have been
produced with funding from NOAA's Coral Reef Conservation Program:
- Web: Daily logs on @Sea by NOAA Fisheries Researcher, Jocelyn Karazsia including: daily journal, images, and a data log (e.g., time of day, temperature, depth,geographic position) to be analyzed by partner classrooms.
- At-sea Visits: The State of Florida enforcement vessel CT Randall will conduct two excursion trips out to the ship to bring visitors, including: science party crew changes, press, VIP's, and teachers.
- Teacher Development: Teacher professional workshop supported by NOAA for Grade 6-12 educators; introduced to deep sea corals and the October expedition.
- TV: Videographer and TV producer to document cruise, create a DVD, and market the resulting public TV product.
- Port Day: October 12th, 8:30-noon, Port Canaveral cruise terminal, visit NASA support ship and CT Randall, speak with scientists and engage in hands-on activities (e.g., drive ROV at dock).
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