Exploration, Live Interaction and Virtual Dives

Those of you who know me can appreciate my love for the ocean, scuba diving and tide pool exploration. Thought I would share this awesome site and great opportunities to virtually explore our majestic ocean!

In 2020, NOAA’s Office of National Marine Sanctuaries partnered with Ocean Exploration Trust to explore the marine ecosystems of the West Coast Region. Working aboard the Exploration Vessel Nautilus, scientists explored and charted national marine sanctuaries along the Washington and California coasts.

Using telepresence technology, researchers from Olympic Coast, Greater Farallones, Monterey Bay, and Channel Islands national marine sanctuaries coordinated mapping operations and underwater robots known as ROVs to investigate seafloor habitats of America’s underwater parks.

Here are some events scheduled around the corner:

• April 29, 2021– California Streaming: Exploring Deep-Sea Coral and Sponge Assemblages in Sunny Southern California: 7am Hawaii; 10am Pacific; 1pm Eastern
• May 5, 2021– Take a Deep Dive: Exploring deep-sea corals, octopus garden, and a whale fall in Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary: 8am Hawaii; 11am Pacific; 2pm Eastern
• Virtual Dives– Click here for available adventures when you are in the mood for a beautiful, relaxing experience

You can experience live, interactive habitat explorations and virtual dive expeditions in your classroom or from the comfort of your home. For virtual event registration, click here.

Please share these virtual opportunities with a colleague.

Stay healthy and safe!  Dean