During
the dive, we had to retrieve the Analytical Instrument Systems (AIS) unit,
and deploy it on the elevator back to the surface. The unit has now been
unofficially named the "InsECT," which means In situ ElectroChemical
Tool. The tool actually uses probes to take measurements from within the
tubes of Riftia.
Alvin
surveys a bed of clams, which is teeming with other organisms, in search
of a good sampling area.
Check
out these photos, which have been transmitted to the University
of Delaware from the R/V Atlantis.
Fire
up the grill!
Chrissy
helps recover Alvin from the water after today’s dive.
Mark
Spear completes another successful PIT (pilot-in-training) dive.
The foot of a deep-sea clam is exposed when retrieved from the biobox.
Frank
and Craig
check the temperature of the water in the bioboxes.
A
smorgasbord of Pompeii worms.
Andrea helps the crew set up eating areas to prepare for tonight’s cookout.
Eddie assists at the grill.
The
crew and scientists mix and mingle around the deck. In the foreground,
George
and Raul chat.
A view of Alvin’s arm at work through the porthole.
