Go On A Deep Sea Cruise With NOAA


Photo from April 12, 2014 NOAA exploration in the Gulf of Mexico.  This small ledge contained mussels, methane hydrate formation, ice worms and sea urchins. Credit: NOAA Okeanos Explorer Program, Gulf of Mexico 2014 Expedition.
Photo from April 12, 2014 NOAA exploration in the Gulf of Mexico. This small ledge contained mussels, methane hydrate formation, ice worms and sea urchins. Credit: NOAA Okeanos Explorer Program, Gulf of Mexico 2014 Expedition. Click for full resolution.

How would you like to see what is on the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico? If you have an internet connection (and obviously, you do) the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is willing to let you look over their shoulders while they work. From April 12 to April 30 the NOAA research ship Okeanos Explorer will supply video feeds from their underwater ROVs (Remote Operated Vehicles). It is a great opportunity to watch marine scientists do their jobs along with viewing underwater environments you normally would never get a chance to see.

Planned highlights of the month include a visit to various shipwrecks (April 15, 16 and 24) and exploring a deep sea canyon on Earth Day, April 22.

Note: One of the ROV’s had a little seaweed problem and had to be brought to the surface on Sunday, but everything’s been fixed and the rover is back in action.