Tim Shank and Dave Lovalvo ensure science and operational objectives are met while exploring a shipwreck. Image courtesy of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Gulf of Mexico 2012. Download larger version (jpg, 980 KB).
Tim Shank and Dave Lovalvo ensure science and operational objectives are met while exploring a shipwreck. Image courtesy of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Gulf of Mexico 2012. Download larger version (jpg, 980 KB).
During a dive, I've heard the coordination within the remotely operated vehicle (ROV) Control Room referred to as a 'dance.' And I’ve heard the Ship and Mission personnel both on board and on shore called an 'orchestra.' Whatever analogy you prefer, marine archaeology dives require tweaking the model. First and foremost is the need to protect the site from disturbance. Federal law prohibits us from providing exact position information. Also, Dave Lovalvo, ROV Team Lead, and Tim Shank, Science Team Lead, are practically inseparable during these dives. They sit side-by-side in the back of the Control Room the entire time, transfixed by the images on the monitors, yet incessantly scribbling notes about the site layout. Definitely a great 'site' and a great 'sight.'
