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Updates

Central Surface Mooring Deployed with Advanced Phytoplankton Imaging Technology

April 30, 2026

The OOI-CGSN team successfully deployed the Central Surface Mooring from the R/V Neil Armstrong as part of ongoing Pioneer Array operations at the Mid-Atlantic Bight. Among the many sophisticated instruments deployed at Pioneer MAB, one of the most exciting is the Imaging FloCytoBot—a cutting-edge phytoplankton imaging system designed to capture high-resolution images of microscopic life in the upper ocean. Positioned approximately four meters below the buoy on the near-surface instrument…

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Northern Surface Mooring Exceeds Expectations in Extended Deployment

April 29, 2026

During the Pioneer Array expedition, the OOI-CGSN team successfully completed an inspection and data download from the Northern Surface Mooring (NOSM), highlighting the remarkable durability and performance of this critical observing platform. Surface moorings are typically deployed for about six months before recovery and replacement. However, NOSM has now remained at sea for more than a year while continuing to reliably deliver valuable oceanographic and meteorological data. Originally scheduled for…

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A Reunion at Sea: R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis Meet Again

April 29, 2026

For the first time in more than four years, the R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis crossed paths at sea – an exciting reunion for two vessels dedicated to advancing ocean science. Years of important research have taken both ships across vast stretches of the ocean, supporting critical scientific missions far and wide. Their meeting serves as a powerful reminder of the global reach and enduring commitment of the oceanographic…

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A Meeting of Research Vessels in the Mid-Atlantic

April 29, 2026

While transiting to Pioneer MAB, the R/V Neil Armstrong crossed paths with fellow research vessels R/V Atlantis and R/V Hugh R. Sharp—a striking reminder of the collaborative scientific efforts underway across the Mid-Atlantic Bight and New England Shelf. Each vessel plays a vital role in advancing oceanographic research in this dynamic region. Together, these ships are supporting critical programs including the Ocean Observatories Initiative (OOI), New England Shelf Long Term…

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Project Manager Teddy Takes a Well-Deserved Sun Break After Pioneer 23 Load

April 29, 2026

After successfully wrapping up the Pioneer 23 load aboard the R/V Neil Armstrong, Project Manager Teddy took a well-earned break—stretching out in the sunshine and soaking up some rays on deck. From overseeing critical operations (and boosting crew morale), Teddy proved once again that every expedition benefits from a dedicated team member with four paws. With the load complete and preparations moving forward, Teddy’s sunny moment was a perfect reminder…

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Dolphins Alongside the Ship

November 20, 2025

As the cruise headed home, dolphins appeared and held pace alongside the ship, slipping in and out of view with the swell. A fitting finish to the Pioneer 22 transit home.

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Preparing for Water Sampling on Pioneer 22

November 18, 2025

Water sampling is a key part of each cruise, giving us essential context for the conditions surrounding our deployed sensors. In this photo, Natalia Moore of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) prepares the CTD rosette for its next cast, part of the ongoing effort to gather profiles of temperature, salinity, and other seawater properties. All data collected from our casts is available online for anyone interested in exploring the…

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A Curious Visitor During ROV Operations

November 18, 2025

During the recovery of the Western shallow-water mooring, the ROV was sent down to check on the multi-function node. As we monitored the video feed, it turned out we weren’t the only ones watching – an inquisitive fish paused in front of the camera, giving the ROV a close look before drifting off. A small reminder that we always have company under the surface.

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Successful Field Repair of a Pioneer 22 Prawler

November 18, 2025

The team completed a successful field repair of a malfunctioning Prawler on the Pioneer 22 cruise. The entire shallow-water mooring was brought on deck, where James Kuo and John Lund of the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) carried out detailed troubleshooting and on-site repairs to restore the vehicle’s performance. After the work was completed, the mooring was re-deployed and closely monitored. The system is now operating normally, with data once…

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Moments from Pioneer 22

November 18, 2025

The Pioneer 22 cruise has offered some striking scenes this week. One evening wrapped with a clean sunset over the Atlantic, the horizon fading into calm water. On another day, moorings on deck made a sharp silhouette against a bright moon rising in the background.  

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