Welcome! We are excited to have you participate in expeditions on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer with the NOAA Office of Exploration and Research! Below are some links necessary to participate in expeditions either from shore or while sailing aboard the Okeanos Explorer.
In 2023, NOAA Ocean Exploration will spend over 160 days at sea on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer while exploring the waters off the U.S. west coast and Alaska. From the end of March through April, NOAA Ocean Exploration will conduct shakedown mapping and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) diving operations along the U.S. west coast before transiting to Alaska and spending the majority of the field season in Alaskan waters and throughout the Aleutian Islands. In October, the ship will return to California to conduct mapping and autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) operations to finish the year before transitioning into the offseason repair period.
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From October 2022 through December 2023, NOAA Ocean Exploration and partners will conduct a series of telepresence-enabled ocean exploration expeditions on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer to improve knowledge about unexplored and poorly understood deepwater areas of the U.S. West Coast from Southern California to Washington. Data collected will establish a baseline in these areas to catalyze further exploration, research, and management activities.
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Learn about the principles of ocean exploration, science equipment and capabilities, remote science participation via telepresence, engagement activities, and expedition data access associated with the Okeanos in this video.
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This page outlines guidance on how to better message and highlight the work of NOAA Ocean Exploration, including that done in association with expeditions on NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer. Also included is information on how to use and cite data collected during expeditions.
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Learn about exploration sampling processes, procedures, and products.
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Learn about OER's principles and procedures for deepwater ocean exploration acoustic mapping.
Learn moreThe information on this page will help you to participate in an Okeanos Explorer expedition remotely, from shore.
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This page includes important information for team members sailing on Okeanos expeditions.
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Through the use of telepresence, far more people are able to participate in Okeanos expeditions than with a more “traditional” research cruise, providing many opportunities to get involved. Visit this page to learn more about how to get involved in the two primary types of Okeanos cruises conducted – mapping exploration and remotely operated vehicle cruises.
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