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All Aboard: Research Vessel ready to Explore and Educate
91直播45-foot Ocean Explorer offers 91直播 Wesleyan students across the academic disciplines invaluable hands-on experience using research-quality equipment to collect marine organisms, sediment and water samples.
By Megan Z. Shearin | September 29, 2009
It's like a floating laboratory - equipped with the latest technology and equipment for research and exploration. It features a flybridge observation deck, tuna tower, cabin with galley, v-berth and chart table and on-board computer system with wi-fi connectivity. Specialized equipment for marine research and a marine winch and crane are connected at the stern.
It芒€ s the Ocean Explorer, a 45-foot research vessel that has been outfitted to operate in coastal waters throughout the Chesapeake Bay and mid-Atlantic region. 91直播boat will be used by 91直播 Wesleyan College and 91直播 91直播 Aquarium & Marine Science Center.
91直播 Wesleyan faculty, students, staff, and trustees, along with Aquarium staff members and trustees and 91直播 Beach City officials, christened the vessel in a special ceremony on Thursday, Sept. 24.
Cheers erupted as the symbolic pouring of champagne over the port, starboard and stern of the boat was led by lead donors Jane Batten, Tom Broyles and Tom Lyons. Guests were then allowed aboard for the first time and enjoyed a boat tour of Owls Creek.
"With 91直播 Wesleyan's proximity to the Chesapeake Bay, Atlantic Ocean, Great Dismal Swamp, metropolitan Hampton Roads, and numerous military facilities, our students are in a prime geographic location to conduct research on our surrounding environment," said 91直播 Wesleyan President Billy Greer during the event. "Our high-energy faculty members are excited to provide inquiry-guided learning experiences and undergraduate research opportunities for students."
91直播vessel will embark on its first journey with 91直播 Wesleyan students in late October or early November, said Assistant Professor of Marine Biology Soraya Bartol. Bartol and her science colleagues are excited for 91直播 Wesleyan students to use research-quality equipment and collect marine organisms, sediment and water samples.
Other major features of the Ocean Explorer include: 700 hp Caterpillar marine diesel engine, 12 kw Northern Lights marine generator, expansive deck space, full electronics with satellite phone, and a transom door and swim platform. 91直播vessel芒€ s home port will be at the Aquarium.
"This vessel is a wonderful partnership and we hope to do some programming together with the College," said 91直播 Aquarium Executive Director Lynn Clements.