We arrived in Seward July 1, and that's when I saw the USCGC Healy "in person" for the first time. I have seen pictures over the past months, and thought about what it would be like on board the ship, but I don't think anything truly prepares you for the up close and personal experience. The ship is large, with plenty of lab space; a brief tour quickly confused me, and I know it will take me a while to get my bearings. I love that the research team is both multinational and multidisciplinary, for these are components I include when I teach science process skills in my classroom. To recognize just a few of the countries represented, I have met individuals from Russia, Taiwan, Japan, Australia and many states in the US, and I look forward to sharing their perspectives of the research. There are two media groups on board, and the research of this expedition is broad - ranging from marine mammals to benthic communities to microbiology to chemistry to bathymetry. A big deal is the ROV that will be deployed (more to come about the ROV!) For more information on daily operations, NOAA has set up a webpage for this expedition at http://oceanexplorer.noaa.gov/explorations/16arctic/welcome.html
First glimpse of the Healy in Seward.
The journey to Seward from Anchorage, via the Seward Highway, was also pretty special as we traveled through the beautiful Chugach Mountains. Everywhere there were reminders of glaciers past and present.
Chugach Mountains in the background.
Personal Space
I have been assigned to a cabin which I share the space with two other women. The cabin is surprisingly roomy, with plenty of room to store gear and personal items. It is important to stow belongings so they do not move around when the ship is underway. Each bunk has a curtain to help block out light, and it is like a little sleeping cocoon. Making up my bunk and stowing my gear felt a lot like being at Girl Scout camp.
Bunk on board Healy.
My cabin aboard the Healy.
Across from my cabin is a science lounge where we are able to work, read, access computers, and hang out. Science labs are on other decks, and lots of gear has been brought onto the ship for each research team's needs.
Question of the Day
Researchers will be studying both pelagic and benthic organisms. What is the difference between pelagic organisms and benthic organisms?
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