Exploration and Research
The ocean is the last frontier. We can travel to space, we’ve placed a man on the moon, but the deepest depths of the ocean are still largely out of reach. The vast majority of the ocean is unexplored and holds much to be discovered. Advancements in underwater vehicles and technology such as submersibles, ROVs (Remotely operated vehicles), and AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles), have allowed researchers to explore the depths of the ocean and to bring novel marine species to the surface every year, and on nearly every deep sea dive.
The unique and diverse hydrothemal vent communities found along deep sea ridges went undiscovered until the 1970’s and are still relatively new to science. In fact, we continue to learn more about them every day. There are still many amazing secrets the ocean holds just waiting to be discovered. New exploration and research can lead to a better understanding of the world around us and the impacts that we have. The ocean can reveal secrets of the Earth’s past and lead to novel advances in science and medicine. If it weren’t for the discovery of a deep sea creature capable of surviving in extreme heat, most of the genetic research conducted today wouldn’t be possible. We are just starting to penetrate the depths of the ocean that brings new and fascinating findings each day.
Ocean exploration is an exciting endeavor. It attracts a diversity of scientists including biologists, archeologists, engineers, ocean educators, and oceanographers. Modern technology and equipment enables researchers to explore the ocean’s greatest depths leading to discoveries of bizarre species and ecosystems – many beyond our wildest imagination. Throughout the history of ocean exploration, key individuals have helped bring the most remote ocean realms to light. Each of these seafaring explorers have contributed uniquely to the field of oceanography, making it their life’s mission to unravel the mysteries of the seas.
 |
JACQUES COUSTEAU
Forever changing the realm of ocean exploration, Captain Jacques Cousteau, co-inventor of the “Aqua-Lung,” the first modern SCUBA gear, provided an unparalleled inspiration for many of today’s greatest marine scientists. Cousteau revolutionized the way humans view the underwater world. Through countless books, films, and TV series he shared his passion for the ocean. Cousteau’s adventurous spirit and devotion to the sea continue to inspire new exploration.
 |
DR. SYLVIA EARLE
Marine biologist Dr. Sylvia Earle, sometimes dubbed "Her Deepness," is an ambassador for the world’s oceans. As one of the bestknown marine scientists, she has led more than 60 expeditions worldwide, clocking over 7,000 hours underwater. She also holds numerous diving records. She walked untethered on the sea floor at a greater depth than any other human being yet still manages to find magic in every step of ocean discovery.
 |
DR. ROBERT BALLARD
Dr. Robert Ballard, one of the world’s most famous ocean explorers best known for his discovery of the Titanic in 1985, revolutionized undersea exploration through the use of ROVs. During one of his 100 deepsea expeditions in 1977, he discovered hydrothermal vents and their unique life-forms. Dr. Ballard’s life mission is to explore the deep sea and to educate students and the general public about his work through the JASON Foundation for Education and Immersion Presents.
 |
DR. PETER AUSTER
Dr. Peter Auster, Science Director for the National Undersea Research Center, University of Connecticut, is an ecologist and conservation biologist whose research focus is marine fishes and their habitat. He has participated in hundreds of dives using occupied submersibles and ROVs. Dr. Auster studies the role that marine protected areas can play in conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity. NOAA named him an Environmental Hero for the Year 2000 for his ecologic research at the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary.
PLACES IN THE SEA RELATED TO EXPLORATION AND RESEARCH
Charleston Bump
Hudson Canyon
Juan de Fuca Ridge
Mariana Trench
Monterey Canyon
Puerto Rico Trench
LEARN MORE
NOAA Ocean Explorer - National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Scripps Institution of Oceanography
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
Technology
Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs)
Deep Sea Submersible Alvin
Ocean Literacy
VIDEO
Endangered Oceans -
Scripps Explorations
Alvin -
National Geographic
Submersible Alvin. Photo:NOAA
Coral survey in NWHI. Photo: NOAA
Divers releasing submersible Alvin. Photo: NOAA