Weather she is a building
The multibeam has been turned on, we are collecting data, yahoo.
Thanks to the scientists, I am learning a bit more about how the
multibeam works.
Marcy Davis explaining to me in pictures how the multi beam works.
Attached to the hull of the vessel are a series of transducers (devices that send out sound waves) Some of the transducers send out sound waves while others receive the returning signal from the ocean floor. The information is then tweaked with computer programs to remove variables that might effect the data: pitch and speed of the vessel, heave and yaw. The scientists also take into account the salinity and temperature of the water. The purpose: to get an accurate "picture" of the sea floor. The scientists are looking for specific geologic features that are present when tectonic plates move, and that is what we are looking for.
A computer image of the sea floor as extrapolated from the multi-beam.
The data we are seeing right now is fascinating, and actually looks like a sea floor. Fold and thrust, pressure from one plate pushing against another (imagine pushing a throw rug against a stationary carpet, how it pillows up).
Satellites also take pictures of the sea surface and can see hills, even trenches on the ocean floor due to changes in the ocean height on the surface. This height change is due in part to the change in gravity from the larger rock mass under the surface. For example, a large underwater volcano will show a bulge on the sea surface, maybe only centimeters, but visible from data collected from space.
It has taken almost an hour to write two paragraphs. This is new
science for me, and I feel that I must understand first before I write.
Thank goodness the scientists are patient in explaining to me what is
probably geology 101 content.
All that red indicated 15 foot seas and above. Might be time for a motion sickness pill.
On another note, the weather has changed, seas are higher, and I feel
both a bit sicker and invigorated. There has been talk about having to
change course because of a nasty weather system ahead, time will tell.
But for now, every now and then I wander out to the helicopter deck to
enjoy some fresh air and the beauty of crashing waves.
I love being at sea, makes me feel alive, as long as I don't throw up!
Many students from Springs School have asked about my quarters, so I have made you a little collage. I hope this helps give a visual of my space. Can you convert my numbers into our English measurement system?
My room, with the unmade bed filled with flags from Flagstaff -- life is good!
Thank you Parks Elementary from Maryland, we love your polar scientists flag.
Thank you Parks Elementary from Maryland, and welcome to winch control!
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