video
Fixing a Seaglider
When planning an at-sea scientific research expedition, researchers often follow the saying “two is one and one is none” to make sure they always have backup gear in case of malfunctions. Even with careful planning, the ocean’s unpredictable environment can cause unforeseen gear failures that have to be fixed in the field without returning to a lab or research base. Here, a glider from the Coordinated Simultaneous Physical-Biological Sampling by ADCP-Equipped Ocean Gliders expedition takes a pit stop at the Seaglider clinic. After the glider experienced a communication failure, the team recovered it to perform a diagnostic check. In the video, field engineer Christina Ramirez uses her plethora of tools on Research Vessel Roberston to open the Seaglider, check for leaks, and ultimately install a new sensor cover on the outside of the glider. After giving the glider a check-up, she connects it to her computer for a series of tests and communicates with on-shore glider pilot Geoff Shilling to ensure all systems are functioning. This Seaglider is now cleared for redeployment offshore of La Push, Washington, where it is being used to collect biological and physical data on the small organisms in the water column and the ocean environment they live in.