Scientists and engineers boarded the research vessel Atlantis in New Orleans for the expedition to test the upgraded Alvin submersible. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

The ship departed New Orleans at 0830 hours to head down the Mississippi River. A convoy of freighters passes Atlantis's starboard side, going upriver. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

The voyage down the muddy Mississippi took nine hours passing industrial areas in the delta region. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

Atlantis reached the Gulf of Mexico and the open ocean as the moon rose over the Gulf--a delightful setting for WHOI scientist Adam Soule to do a little strumming on his ukulele. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

Moonlight bathed the surface of the Gulf of Mexico, though most people on board were too busy preparing for today's Alvin dive to notice. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

Alvin Expedition Leader Bruce Strickrott (right) consults with scientists Susan Humphris, who will take on its first science dive, and Don Nuzzio of Advanced Instrument Systems. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)

Nearly 900 days since its last research dive—and the most extensive upgrade in its nearly 50-year history—the submersible Alvin is scheduled to return to the depths this morning on a science mission. Everyone on board the R/V Atlantis, from scientists to pilots to ship’s crew, is abuzz and eager to launch the new, improved sub. Read More →