The OOI-CGSN team successfully deployed the Northern Profiler Mooring (NOPM) from the R/V Neil Armstrong, marking another important step in maintaining the Pioneer Array’s advanced ocean observing capabilities.
Deployment of the NOPM is a carefully coordinated operation. The buoy is deployed first, followed by a buoyancy sphere, the profiling vehicle, and finally the anchor. Each component plays a critical role in ensuring the mooring’s long-term performance and scientific success.
A key element of the system is the buoyancy sphere, which helps isolate surface buoy motion from the profiling vehicle below. By maintaining proper tension on the mooring line, the buoyancy sphere allows the profiling vehicle to safely travel up and down the wire while collecting valuable water column data.
As the profiler moves along the mooring line, it gathers essential oceanographic measurements and inductively transmits the data to the surface buoy. The buoy then telemeters this information to shore via satellite, providing researchers with near real-time access to critical environmental observations.
This sophisticated design supports continuous, high-resolution monitoring of ocean conditions while demonstrating the engineering precision behind long-term oceanographic research infrastructure.
Image credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).
Image credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).
Image credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).
Image credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).
Image credit: Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI).