EM302 Water Column Sonar Data Collected During EX1605L3

This dataset contains oceanographic data collected in the deep water areas around the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas Islands (CNMI). Operations for this cruise included ROV, mapping, telepresence-based remote participation, and CTD rosette operations. Operations also used the ship’s deep water mapping systems, NOAA’s two-body 6000 m remotely operated vehicle, and the ship’s high-bandwidth satellite connection for real-time ship to shore communications. Daytime ROV dives were planned every day and included high-resolution visual surveys and limited rock and biologic specimen sampling. Mapping operations were conducted overnight when the ROV was on deck and CTD casts were taken to collect more environmental information at sites of interest. Exploration operations for this cruise focused on deep-water areas around CNMI and the Marianas Trench Marine National Monument (MTMNM). This expedition helped establish a baseline of information in the region to catalyze further exploration, research, and management activities.