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Example
of acoustic data received from hydrophone. |
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Overview
of Pioneer Seamount, the hydrophone and cable.
(click for full-size) |
As
part of NOAA's Ocean Exploration Program, scientists are using
an undersea cable to passively monitor the ocean for natural
and man-made sounds. This cable extends about 95 km from shore
to an undersea mountain known as Pioneer Seamount (37 21.1'N;123
26.1'W). On August 31, 2001, a hydrophone array was installed
on the summit of the seamount (998m depth), and sounds from
earthquakes, weather, whales, ships, etc. are continuously
recorded and transmitted to this web site as they are received.
Acoustic signals ceased on September
25, 2002. Testing by University of Washington engineers indicate
a cable fault approximately 25 miles offshore. A remotely
operated vehicle (ROV) from MBARI surveyed and photographed
the cable in the summer of 2003. Survey results indicated
the cable should not be repaired due to costs and environmental
impacts.
 Visit
Ocean
Explorer's Sound in the Sea Exploration to Pioneer Seamount.
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