Join FLEXE as it concludes its 2009 pilot project with a research cruise to the extreme environment of the Lau Back-Arc Basin, near the Kingdom of Tonga.

• Learn how research is conducted in the deep sea using the remotely operated vehicle Jason.
• Meet scientists and crew members on the expedition.
• Find out what questions Ridge 2000 scientists are working on as they continue their inquiry to understand what factors influence animal distributions in different communities found at vents along the East Lau Spreading Center.
  
• See what questions (and answers!) FLEXE students have as they join the investigation.

Cruise sails 16 May - 8 June 2009. Scientists and crew aboard the R/V Thompson will depart Apia, Samoa and begin their research work along the spreading center in the Lau back-arc basin. More...