Tools of Oceanography and Current Technologies

In this topic, you learned about the wide variety of tools and advanced technologies oceanographers rely upon to study the biological, chemical, geological, and physical aspects of the oceans.

Important oceanography tools include bottom corers, deck plankton collectors, the Eckman and Peterson Grabs, and surface sample bottles, just to name a few.

Mobility is key for oceanographers. They rely on highly sophisticated ocean-going research vessels such as the R/V Atlantis to take them to points of interest around the globe. When they arrive, submersibles like the famous DSV Alvin allow scientists an up-close and personal view of the ocean depths.

To help explore the deepest ocean features, oceanographers employ a variety of specialized remotely operated and autonomous vehicles packed with sonar images, water samplers, video recording equipment, and still cameras.

In space, numerous satellites send oceanographers a constant flow of data about the Earth and its oceans, from measuring weather and temperatures, to high resolution imagery.

Finally, buoys floating on the ocean surface provide oceanographers with vital information on marine environmental conditions as well as wave and tidal patterns.