Day 16 - May 27
Weather Report
Time: 12:10 PM Pacific Daylight Time
Air Temperature: 5.2 Degrees Celsius
Sea Temperature: 6.9 Degrees Celius
Wind Speed: 16.9 Knots
Water Depth: 4224.6 Meters
Ship's Speed: 1.8 Knots
Latitude: N 50
Longitude: W 144.59
The
CTD cast today was to a depth of 4000 meters! Styrofoam cups and
test tube crates were decorated by the researchers, placed in a net
bag, attached to the frame surrounding the CTD, and lowered. The
cast was unsuccessful as the cable kinked and only a few samples
were collected. One possible explanation for the kinking of the
cable is that at these depths the cable experiences more stress causing
the CTD package to bounce to a stop. The stress of bouncing and
pressure at 4000 meters below sea level may have caused the kinking.
The kink in the cable is located two to three meters above
the shackle of the frame surrounding the CTD rosette. Of course,
as with the sea lion/seal difference of opinion and the
dolphin/porpoise distinction, some crew members claim the manufacturing
of the cable itself could be the culprit. Another cast will be
conducted at 1600 hours.
The cast was made at 1730 and was only dropped to a depth
of 1000 meters. There is a heavy weather advisory posted
on-board, which means no going on deck without permission from the
bridge. A personal flotation device must be worn. A partner must
also be with you. In other words, batten down the hatches and
stay inside the vessel.
Send comments and questions to Mr. Caddigan
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