Secure Back Deck

Credit: DT Crist © WHOI.

Credit: DT Crist © WHOI.

Credit: DT Crist © WHOI.

Credit: DT Crist © WHOI.

Credit: DT Crist © WHOI.

The R/V Neil Armstrong is fully loaded with ocean observing equipment for the first deployment of the Coastal Pioneer Array at the Mid-Atlantic Bight.  To ensure all equipment stays in place, regardless of conditions, the ship’s back deck has holes drilled into the floor that allows the team to securely fasten and tie-down the various pieces of the mooring to be deployed.  Heavy duty rings are screwed into the deck holes and equipment is held in place with ratchet tie-down straps or chains.  In some cases, equipment is screwed in directly to the holes.  This configuration allows for great flexibility and use of the back deck.