Young Lab: The Young Lab (right picture) from the University of Oregon has had a busy first day aboard the R/V Atlantis! After being briefed about the day-to-day operations with DSV (Deep Submergence Vehicle) Alvin, we all introduced ourselves to the WWU crew and decided on a dive schedule for the cruise. The rest of the day was spent prepping the lab space! Equipment for various experiments had to be assembled (more to follow soon!), chemicals prepared, and gear strapped down. This last step is most important in case the vessel encounters rough seas. With all set and ready to go, the Young Lab eagerly awaits the voyage ahead.
Arellano Lab: A late night for the Larval Lab (left picture) after a day of travel, but we are excited to be on board R/V Atlantis! Lugging around seven *very* large tubs of lab equipment and luggage through the SeaTac airport security was quite a feat, but everything made it to Gulfport in one piece (as did we!) Today mostly entailed organizing the lab and exploring our new shipboard home. We all eagerly awaited to see the results of a lottery draw to know who would get an Alvin dive during the cruise—it looks like three WWU students will get to descend into the deep sea!!! Departure at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow will bring a nice relaxing day at sea!
Authors’ Highlights:
Lauren Rice is a PhD student at the University of Oregon – “It was a long and hectic day setting up the lab but seeing the faces of the undergraduate helpers as they received the dive assignments was absolutely priceless. 😊”
Laura Anthony is a senior at Western Washington University- “Hopping inside of the larger-than-expected Alvin was a lifelong dream come true!”
Woooo! This is so exciting! Bon voyage and good luck!