Peter Girguis, chief scientist of the Alvin Science Verification Cruise, stands before the sub during nighttime tests of the sub's lighting. Scientists and engineers are experimenting with adding and positioning lights to optimize Alvin's imaging capabilities. (Photo by Chris Linder, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)
On Thursday, scientists on the Alvin Verification Cruise adjusted high-intensity LED lights on the sub’s “brow” and just above the forward viewports (not seen in this drawing) to perfect the lighting so they can obtain sharp, shadow- and glare-free photos and videos from the sub. (Illustration by E. Paul Oberlander, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)
The whole objective of this research cruise is to test a newly rebuilt Alvin equipped with upgraded systems that had never been used before by scientists under field conditions. Scientists and engineers expected hiccups and learning curves. After four test dives of Alvin, it was time to tweak, troubleshoot, and optimize. Read More →