Pacific Quest: Mapping and Exploring the Pacific

Campaign Goals & Objectives

Rooted in the fundamental principle that we cannot responsibly manage or use what we have yet to discover, Pacific Quest is about bringing together federal capabilities, tools, and expertise to collect critical scientific data to guide responsible decision-making about resources in the deep ocean. This includes areas tied to deep-sea mineral priorities, which supports the Executive Order, “Unleashing America’s Offshore Minerals and Resources.” While marine critical minerals and their environmental context is a primary focus of the campaign, its scope extends to encompass all aspects of deep ocean science – from increasing understanding of deep-sea coral and sponge communities to gaining insight into past and future geological hazards, documenting maritime heritage sites, characterizing life in the water column, and more. 

Key science and operational objectives of the campaign include:

• Mapping the unexplored: Collecting high-resolution mapping data of the seafloor and water column using ship-based sensors and autonomous underwater vehicles in areas with no or low-quality data, with a focus on areas identified as having a high potential for marine critical minerals.
• Studying ecosystems and resources: Collecting high-resolution visual and environmental data as well as geological, biological, and water samples to increase understanding of resource potential and the marine ecosystem and geological context in which they occur.
• Driving innovation: Increasing the pace, scope, and efficiency of deep-sea surveys and exploration through the testing and deployment of innovative technologies.
• Sharing data: Providing a foundation of publicly accessible data and information products to support informed management decision-making and spur further exploration and research.
• Engaging the public: Involving a broad range of audiences—including the general public, local governments, the scientific community, and industry—through live telepresence-based exploration, community engagement, and outreach and education activities.
• Building partnerships: Enhancing American impact in the region and opportunities for U.S.-based companies and engaging with foreign nations to support the exploration of their waters and provide local decision-makers with an understanding of their marine resources and environmental contexts.