Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROV) are unoccupied underwater robots, connected to an operator via a series of cables. The connecting cables transmit command and control signals to and from the underwater vehicle and the operator, allowing remote navigation of the vehicle.
A typical hydrographic ROV configuration includes a video camera, lights, sonar systems, and an articulating arm. The articulating arm can be used for retrieving small objects, cutting lines, or attaching lifting hooks to larger objects. The ROV system includes the vehicle, deck unit, tether management system, hand box controller, laptop computer, and video display. (NOAA 2010)
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Side scan sonar is a specialized sonar system for searching and detecting objects on the seafloor. Like other sonars, a side scan transmits sound energy and analyzes the return signal (echo) that has bounced off the seafloor or other objects. (NOAA 2010)… Read More
We had the pleasure of seeing families of dolphins feeding in the distance. As curious as we were, the dolphins swam near us for some great photos. .… Read More
We listened to a presentation conducted by Dr. Burton Jones. He is a Professor of Marine Environmental Biology at the University of Southern California. His research interests include bio-optical oceanography, physical-biological interactions, coastal processes, and coastal ocean observing systems. Dr. Jones has been involved in implementing a coastal observing system that includes both fixed sites… Read More
We just returned from an excellent week of learning and enjoying new experiences. Arriving in Southern California on Sunday allowed us to get out and do a little bit of site-seeing. I was fortunate to be able to visit with my family in LA. Oh yeah, let’s not forget the Dodgers game. We were counting… Read More
Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL). What an incredible place!! Excellent presentations with fun and meaningful examples of how to teach students about space, the oceans, satellites, etc… while having a great time. The speakers were some of the top scientists in their fields. We were afforded the privilege of sitting in one of NASA’s control rooms. … Read More
Wednesday is another good day of learning. Andrew and I had more fun than the other groups during the ‘Surface Circulation Model’ activity. We used modeling clay and maps of the coast and ocean floor to create a replica of the east coast of the U.S. Conducting fluid, which is cool by itself, was used… Read More
