Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary is working with Marine Imaging Technologies and Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution in its 2020 expedition to document and collect samples from the seafloor! With the help of Pixel, a cinema-class remotely operated vehicle (ROV), the team will continue building 3D photogrammetric models to understand the condition of shipwrecks in the sanctuary and create 360° virtual underwater tours of these unique and historic sites. By collecting samples, Pixel will aid scientists in studying the diversity of marine species, such as anemones and sea stars, that call the sanctuary’s shipwrecks home. You can join in LIVE, August 25th-27th, for this expedition and learn all about this mission and see the seafloor in real time!
As a leader in ocean science and exploration, WHOI is committed to carrying out its mission while following all relevant local, state, and federal guidelines to ensure the health and safety of its staff and research partners. Telepresence technology is one way that NOAA and its partners are able to continue conducting research in national marine sanctuaries safely. Scientists are able to connect to the vessel from shore while expanding participation in oceanographic research in real-time.
Learn more about the expedition and how to tune in at https://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/live/2020/whoi.html.
(Photo: Marine Imaging Technologies/NOAA. Image description: An ROV floats underwater over a wreck.)
