Logbook
June 16, 1999

Wecoma Science Report

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Life at Sea: Participant Perspective

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Come join the scientists aboard the Wecoma for a cruise to the New Millenium Observatory (NEMO) investigation of hydrothermal activity at Axial Volcano, Juan de Fuca Ridge. My name is Dena Deck and I am a fourth grade teacher from Stephen Foster Elementary School located in Lakewood, Southern California (Bellflower USD). I am a participant of the Teacher at Sea program through NOAA.

My participation on the vessel Wecoma, operated by Oregon State University, began with my arrival on Tuesday June 15. The crew and Chief Scientist, Dr. Ed Baker, were loading equipment for a variety of physical and chemical oceanographic studies.

We were away from the dock, in Seattle, at 11:00 am on Wed. morning, with scientists busily placing, taping, adjusting, strapping down (you name it!) and attaching computers and scientific equipment in the ship's lab to support the collection of data for this investigation. Everyone is enthusiastic about our cruise itinerary. Dr. Baker, Chief Scientist NOAA/PMEL and oceanographers from NOAA/PMEL and the University of Hawaii will provide answers to our many questions.

Through the porthole I can see the swell height is about 6 - 7 ft. Today's weather is comfortable with a light covering of clouds and an air temperature of 54 degrees. Our estimated arrival time at the Axial Volcano on the Juna de Fuca Ridge is at 21:00 (9 pm). Check your map, the location is 46 degrees North, 130 degrees West.

After we arrive at Axial Volcano, we will begin operations to sample the water and collect instruments on the seafloor that will tell us what's been happening here for the last year.

Check back daily and see how we are doing with this exiting investigation!

Fair seas,

Ms. Deck
(Hello to Room 33!)

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