NCEI Scientist at Sea: From Collection to Archive

This year, I embarked on a voyage of discovery aboard NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer, joining the Beyond the Blue: Hawai’i Mapping expedition 2402 (EX2402) from May 14–22, 2024. As a first-year data manager at NCEI, it felt like stepping into a dream. As we left the dock and the Hawaiian shores faded into the horizon behind us, I felt a sense of exhilaration knowing I was part of an extraordinary journey that few have the privilege to experience firsthand.

Our mission, as part of NOAA Ocean Exploration’s “Beyond the Blue: Hawai’i Mapping” expedition, was to collect bathymetric, sub-bottom, and water column sonar data for more comprehensive mapping of the area in and around the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. With support from off-shore partners such as the U.S. Bureau of Energy Management (BOEM) and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), we charted a course 200 kilometers south of the Big Island, delving into the unmapped regions of the Pacific Ocean's depths. The goal was clear: to unveil the unknown features hidden beneath the waves, from bathymetric formations to the enigmatic manganese nodules dotting the ocean floor. Following this survey, there will be five more expeditions on Okeanos Explorer in 2024, building on work conducted in the central Pacific from 2015–17. The data collected are vital for oceanographic research and the broader scientific community, unlocking profound insights about the seafloor, water column, and biological environments.
 

As a data manager, my role was twofold: to immerse myself in the intricacies of data collection procedures and to facilitate the journey of this invaluable information to the NCEI archives. I found myself in Mission Control most of the expedition, surrounded by the steady hum of technology and the focused energy of expert mappers and technicians. Together we monitored the live stream of incoming data, making split-second decisions to optimize our course and ensure the seamless flow of information. When data acquisition was less hectic, I learned about the file management protocol and how CruisePack, a software developed by NCEI, would be implemented in future expeditions to further streamline the data packaging process and reduce the time to archive and publish data. 

One unforgettable afternoon we watched the multibeam data stream on the monitors where a kaleidoscope of colors danced across the screen, unveiling the ocean floor with unprecedented detail. Each swath of data painted a vivid picture of the hidden landscapes below, coming in rows as the sonar swath chirped and bounced off the ocean floor. A perfectly-shaped caldera emerged 5,100 feet underwater, which was later posted on the NOAA Ocean Exploration Facebook and Instagram accounts. 
 

Amidst the excitement of exploration, there were moments of quiet wonder. During my early morning shift as the ship cut through the inky darkness of the ocean, I stood alongside Erin Heffron, my bunkmate and a mapper with more than 20 years of expertise. Under her mentorship, I learned in detail about sonar instrumentation, delving into the nuances of calibration and data processing. With each passing hour I gained a deeper understanding of the raw and processed data types created, quality control procedures and software used for the daily products.

Treyson Gillespie, another fellow mapper aboard, encapsulated the significance of our endeavor: 
 

"Ocean explorations lay the foundation for deploying oceanographic sensors, remotely controlled and manned assets, and for helping to characterize the geologic processes forming our deep ocean basins. NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer is an incredible platform, with an amazing crew, that regularly helps to fill out these knowledge gaps for scientists around the world to conduct further research."

As our expedition drew to a close, I reflected on the journey from data collection to archive. Each day, I witnessed firsthand the dedication and expertise required to transform raw data into a valuable resource for the scientific community. From the bustling activity of Mission Control to the quiet camaraderie of the science team, every aspect of the journey was infused with purpose and passion. It was a ballet of technology and teamwork, guided by the shared pursuit of knowledge. 

Jordan Schweizer, my colleague and a data manager for the trackline team, shared with me her experience on the boat:
 

“I gained insights into the data organization process before it leaves the ship, which differs from the structure of the data sent on hard drives. As the point of contact receiving the hard drives in Boulder, this has helped provide a much better understanding of various data types, particularly multibeam and water column data, which we previously knew little about.” 

Sam Cuellar, Shannon Hoy, and Alex Dawson were also part of the science team as the expedition coordinator, mapping lead, and visiting scientist, respectively. Each played an important role in leading or supporting mapping procedures, while also answering my numerous questions. 

On the final day, I bid farewell to Okeanos Explorer and returned to shore, and carried with me not only memories of adventure, but also a renewed appreciation for the vital role of data management in oceanographic research. Our voyage was not just a quest for knowledge but a testament to the power of collaboration and curiosity.

From collection to archive, my time aboard Okeanos Explorer has highlighted the profound impact of oceanographic research. In the coming days, as the data from the expedition finds its way into the archives of NCEI, I am reminded of the enduring legacy of our journey at sea. From the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of scientific inquiry, our efforts will continue to inspire and inform future generations of explorers.
 

To be part of the current live stream and future cruises, visit the following links! Observe the livestream, view updates on the Okeanos Explorer, and follow the Ocean Exploration Facebook and Instagram pages. For NCEI related news, visit us at https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/news.