Serious Science
The MOCNESS can be programmed to open at different depths to collect samples. Awesome piece, on its maiden voyage. -ChC
What is MOCNESS and why do we use it?
MOCNESS is a much-improved, high-tech version of the humble sampling net. The letters in MOCNESS refer to the specific improvements: it’s a Multiple Opening and Closing Net, with an Environmental Sensing System.
As MOCNESS tows behind a research ship, each net can be opened and shut independently so that it samples a discrete patch of water. The researcher chooses exactly when by using the environmental sensing system. This is an array of sensors mounted on the instrument frame that relays water conditions up to the ship in real time. The data also help researchers match what they find in their sample to the physical properties of the seawater.
From: Ocean Instruments
Photos: Below Deck
More photos taken below deck by Christa. She sent these by email in the days before the ship set sail. Continue reading “Photos: Below Deck”
Photos: Below Deck
More photos taken below deck by Christa. She sent these by email in the days before the ship set sail. Continue reading “Photos: Below Deck”
Photos: On Deck
Night Watch
Happy birthday to my oldest, 15 today!
Just came off night watch– only one hour because we are still in port, alongside. Typing on phone.
Quiet wake up call by previous watch, telling me it was 0150, ten minutes to two, and a little chilly out. Time for my watch.
On deck, two others from my watch–kim and noah, and Katy, first scientist. Read standing orders, initialed. Had read night orders before going to bed. Just regular boat check and log weather.
Boat check includes walking the deck and surveying the lines tying us to dock, to ensure no chafing, that the lines are still holding correctly, tide hasn’t moved them to rub or loosen. General check of the deck– lines, any gear out of place, all’s well. Below-decks it includes a walk-through, looking for any standing water, unusual smells, anything amiss, check dry stores, refrigerator temps, and engine room– record oil pressure, temps, water levels, etc.
Also need to record seas and weather. Skies currently 6/8 covered in cirrus, seas calm, wind 1 beufort. Temp 20C. Continue reading “Night Watch”