2021 Expedition
plugging in cable into underwater observatory

Ocean Networks Canada

August 7 – September 2, 2021
NA129

Expedition Partners

Lead Scientist
Expedition Operations Lead

For 28 days, E/V Nautilus will provide support to Ocean Networks Canada’s (ONC) NEPTUNE observatory located off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada, within the traditional and modern territories of the Nuu-chah-nulth and Coast Salish peoples. This deep-sea network reaches 250 kilometers off-shore and consists of an 800-kilometer loop of fiber optic cable connected to instruments that enable scientists to study continuous long-term observations not afforded by traditional ship-based ocean exploration. This expedition marks the sixth year of the partnership between Ocean Networks Canada and the Ocean Exploration Trust.  

In addition to deploying, recovering, and providing maintenance for various observatory sensors and instruments, Nautilus will also conduct seafloor mapping surveys, and ROV dives including biological and geological sampling. The expedition will include work at various observatory sites including: Barkley Canyon, continental margin at Clayoquot Slope, abyssal plain of Cascadia Basin, and the Endeavour Hydrothermal Vents

Meet the Team

Expedition Posts

Selected Publications

2022

Wishnak, S., J Flanders, E Crum, C Wiener (2022). New Frontiers in Ocean Exploration: The Ocean Exploration Trust, NOAA Ocean Exploration, and Schmidt Ocean Institute 2021 Field Season. Oceanography Supplement 34: 1.