Okeanos Explorer (EX1504L1): CAPSTONE Leg I: Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM) - (Mapping)

Vessel: NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer; Expedition Dates: July 10 - 24, 2015

Project Principals: Derek Sowers, NOAA/OAR/OER (Expedition Coordinator and Mapping Lead)

Multibeam and singlebeam mapping operations will be conducted 24 hours a day throughout the cruise. Sub-bottom profile mapping will be conducted 24 hours a day at the discretion of the CO. Most of the mapping areas to be pursued during this cruise have never been mapped with modern sonar before. Mapping activities will focus on three primary areas, (1) some potential underwater cultural heritage sites south of Oahu, (2) the Necker Island area within the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument (PMNM), and (2) the Karin Seamount Chain near Johnston Atoll within the recently expanded Pacific Remote Islands Marine National Monument (PRIMNM).