iMAGE-CREATE partners host countless hours of seafloor imagery from past dive operations with HOV (human-occupied) and ROV (remotely-operated) vehicles as well as towed camera surveys. These extensive archives, including still images and videos, provide an unprecedented training opportunity for those who are visiting the seafloor for the first time. iMAGE-CREATE experts are developing “live tutorials” on the seabed, supplementing established archives with hundreds of hours of our own ocean-floor observations from around the globe, creating a unique learning opportunity.
On-line training modules are being developed on a continuing basis, with projects already started on the Juan de Fuca Ridge (Endeavour, Explorer), Indian Ocean (RTJ, INDEX), Lau Basin and Tonga-Kermadec arc, Marianas, Jean Charcot Troughs, Bismarck Sea, North Fiji Basin, Azores, and the mid-Atlantic Ridge.
GEOMAR scientists have established “Virtual Seafloor” modules for its unique ARENA2 Visualization Laboratory (Artificial Research Environment for Networked Analysis) which provides visualization services with a focus on seafloor geology (lab head Dr. Tom Kwasnitschka). Current projects include visualization of the Reykjanes Ridge (IceAGE) and Tofua Arc volcanoes (R/V Falkor) using data collected on cruises joined by iMAGE-CREATE students.