Six months ago today I sat in front of my computer, staring at the screen. I wanted it to be just right. An email had crossed my desk in a roundabout and somewhat accidental way, and the past two days had been a scramble of activity to respond and get an application together.Truth be told, … Continue reading Headed for home
Tag: deep sea
Meet Hercules
In case you have been wondering about some of the technology that makes ocean exploration aboard the E/V Nautilus possible, today’s post is about Hercules, one of the ROVs. Hercules parked inside his hangar, where he can be worked on and protected from the elements during transit.Todd designed and built Hercules. He gave me a tour … Continue reading Meet Hercules
Dive Alert!
Tonight we will perform another dive, with both ROVs (Argus & Hercules). We will be diving near the "East of Eden 3" site, and other targets that we identified as being potential active hydrothermal vents during our reconnaissance dive a few days ago.We will be studying the geological features, looking for interesting biological features (including … Continue reading Dive Alert!
Meet Socktopus
Today, I am happy to share a special blog post from my friend and travel companion Socktopus. Enjoy! ~Melissa **********************Me with other members of my family.Nice to meet you! My name’s Socktopus. I was inspired by a craft that was done at this year’s Kaleidoscope. I was born back in Ventura, along with a brother … Continue reading Meet Socktopus
World Oceans Day
Happy World Oceans Day! Today we celebrate the ocean, and all it does for us. Oceans cover 71% of our planet. They were the birthplace of life. They determine our weather and climate. They feed billions of people. Their chemical composition nearly mirrors that of our blood.Arriving at Baltra, a volcanic cone is visible in … Continue reading World Oceans Day
Land Ho!
Today started and ended magically. Today was the day we finally arrived at the Galápagos.Just after breakfast it appeared through the clouds in the distance: San Cristóbal Island! This is the first island of the archipelago that Darwin stepped foot on in 1835. It is comprised of several extinct volcanoes linked together, and is a jumble … Continue reading Land Ho!
Seasick
Another long day spent in transit. Today, the sea was not as calm as yesterday, and the choppy water has sent confusing messages to my inner ear, resulting in bouts of seasickness. Unfortunately, I lost my breakfast shortly after consuming it. Fortunately, I made it to the bathroom in time.The choppiness of the water did … Continue reading Seasick
To the Galapagos: the day in photos
It is very late here right now, and I've been busy working on my next article for the Ventura County Star series. So today's blog post is mostly visual. Enjoy!The first dolphins I've seen so far!The rack room is crammed with all kinds of equipment.This is during training for the multibeam sonar.Red and yellow is … Continue reading To the Galapagos: the day in photos
Getting Underway
The engine started with a tremendous roar and a thrum.The following is part of a multi-part series . Melissa Baffa, Vice President of Program and Volunteer Services for GSCCC, is part of the Corps of Exploration this year on the adventure of a lifetime. This blog series will chronicle her dive into the Unknown. ¸.·´¯`·.¸.·´¯`·...¸> … Continue reading Getting Underway
Sometimes Even the Best-Laid Plans Go Awry
The plan for today was simple: refuel and take on fresh water, offload the garbage, and move out for a hull cleaning at anchor. The following is part of a multi-part series. Melissa Baffa, Vice President of Program and Volunteer Services for GSCCC, is part of the Corps of Exploration this year on the adventure … Continue reading Sometimes Even the Best-Laid Plans Go Awry
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