Image Highlight: Discovered Mooring in Sight

Del Mar Mooring: A Pioneer in Ocean Observation

In the heart of California, three miles offshore of Del Mar, a remarkable piece of technology is hard at work. This is the Del Mar Mooring, an ocean observatory that has been in operation since 2006, and it's not just any ordinary piece of equipment.

The Del Mar Mooring, operated by the Ocean Time Series Group, is a hub of technological innovation, measuring essential parameters such as temperature, currents, oxygen concentration, chlorophyll abundance, pH, and acoustic backscatter from fish. It's a veritable oceanographer's toolkit, providing invaluable data about ocean conditions.

The mooring serves a dual purpose. On one hand, it's a research platform, constantly gathering data that helps scientists understand the complexities of our ocean. On the other, it's an educational resource, serving as the backbone for the course Observational Techniques in Oceanography: At-Sea Practicum. Each year, students learn observational oceanography skills by servicing the mooring, gaining hands-on experience that's invaluable in their future careers.

Ethan Morris, a marine mechanic, is one of the key figures behind the mooring's operation. He works for Uwe Send, the head of the Ocean Time Series Group at the Oceanographic Laboratory, responsible for overseeing the Del Mar Mooring.

The technology-based operations of the mooring are continually expanding and evolving. For instance, the Imaging Flow Cytobot, a device that takes pictures of plankton suspended in the water, is currently being tested. This collaboration with the Barton Lab and Heidi Sosik from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is set to revolutionise our understanding of plankton populations and their role in the ocean ecosystem.

Another exciting development is the acoustic "fish tollgates", which use sound to monitor fish passing through a particular area. This collaboration with David Demer from NOAA's Southwest Fisheries Science Center promises to provide unprecedented insights into fish migration patterns and behaviour.

The Del Mar Mooring's operation is far from ordinary. It's a testament to human ingenuity, a beacon of technological advancement, and a crucial tool in our quest to understand the ocean. The data collected by the mooring is transmitted in real time, ensuring that scientists and students alike can stay up-to-date with the latest oceanic happenings.

The related Image Gallery for this article is Photo of the Week 2018, offering a visual glimpse into the world of the Del Mar Mooring. It's a fascinating piece of equipment, and its impact on oceanography research and education is undeniable. As it continues to evolve, the Del Mar Mooring promises to remain at the forefront of ocean observation for years to come.