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Out beyond the horizon

The US Department of Homeland Security's Marine Asset Tag Tracking System (MATTS) uses GPS and data logging to track large cargo ships worldwide. This system helps identify potential security risks, such as explosives or biologic threats, and provides real-time alerts to authorities.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateAug 23, 2007

'New continent' and species discovered in Atlantic study

An international research team has discovered a new species of Ostracod in the North Atlantic Ocean, while exploring the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The team used advanced technology to capture stunning images and specimens, shedding light on life in this remote deep-sea environment.

SourceCensus of Marine Life·DateAug 17, 2007

Catastrophic flooding changes the course of British history

A catastrophic megaflood separated Britain from France hundreds of thousands of years ago, carving a massive valley along the English Channel. The flood reorganized river drainages in north-west Europe, affecting early human occupation in Britain and potentially leading to an abrupt halt in migration.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature·DateJul 18, 2007
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Ports could hasten freight traffic by doubling up on crane trips

Double cycling, a technique that loads and unloads ships simultaneously, has the potential to increase port efficiency by up to 20% and reduce crane trips by half. By loading and unloading containers at the same time, trucks can drop off one container while picking up another, reducing the need for additional truck trips.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalTransportation Science·DateJun 5, 2007

Texas A&M researchers attempt deepest effort recovery in gulf

A team of Texas A&M researchers is recovering artifacts from a 200-year-old shipwreck in the Gulf of Mexico, making it the deepest such recovery effort ever attempted. The vessel's identity and origin remain a mystery, but analysis suggests it was likely from the late 1700s or early 1800s.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateMay 22, 2007

Fitness has fallen since the days of Ancient Greece

Researchers found that ancient Athenian rowers would have matched up well with modern-day athletes in terms of endurance. The study suggests that ancient Greeks may have had a more efficient way of rowing, or were extremely fit, to power their warships at high speeds.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalThe New Scientist·DateFeb 8, 2007
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Report finds cruise industry is protecting the precious places it visits

The report highlights successful environmental and cultural management in popular cruise destinations, including philanthropic funds for local communities and scientific laboratories on ships. It also provides recommendations for how stakeholders can work together to minimize negative impacts while promoting conservation.

SourceConservation International·DateMar 14, 2006
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

World's oldest ship timbers found in Egyptian desert

Researchers discovered ancient ship timbers at Wadi Gawasis site, dating back approximately 4,000 years, indicating a 2,000-mile round-trip voyage to Punt, a southern Red Sea trading center. The findings confirm the Egyptians had the naval technology to travel long distances by sea.

SourceFlorida State University·DateMar 6, 2006

Devices tease out individual sounds from underwater racket

Devices called PALs can detect sounds coming from ships, whales, volcanic eruptions, rainfall, and breaking waves. By analyzing these sound sources by frequency, researchers can create a 'sound budget' that helps establish noise regulations for different ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Washington·DateFeb 27, 2006

MIT: Deep-sea robot photographs ancient Greek shipwreck

A novel autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) has photographed the ancient Greek shipwreck on the ocean floor, revealing detailed images of cargo remnants. The project marks a significant milestone in underwater archaeology, using advanced technology to survey and map shipwrecks with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 2, 2006
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

What big eyes you have...the better to hear you with

The Office of Naval Research has developed a technology that allows binoculars to transmit digital voice over long distances, up to five nautical miles. LightSpeed can also be used for communication between ships at sea and platforms in the air and on the ground.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 29, 2005

Ships bring alien jellyfish invaders to our shores

Researchers used genetic data and computer simulations to reveal that moon jellyfish migration post-dates European global shipping and trade. The study found that up to 23% of marine species in international harbors are non-indigenous, posing threats to ecosystems and causing billions of dollars in damage.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 15, 2005

North Atlantic right whales headed toward extinction

The North Atlantic right whale population is critically low, with estimates suggesting only 350 individuals remain. Human activities such as shipping and fishing are major contributors to the decline, resulting in numerous deaths and entanglements that threaten the species' survival.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience·DateJul 27, 2005
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Endangered North Atlantic right whale study says population in crisis

The North Atlantic right whale population is in a state of crisis, with 50 whales reported dead since 1986, mainly from human activities like ship collisions and entanglement in fishing gear. To prevent extinction, researchers recommend emergency measures such as reducing ship speeds and eliminating fixed fishing gear.

SourceWoods Hole Oceanographic Institution·JournalScience·DateJul 25, 2005

FSU scientist warns North Atlantic right whale facing extinction

The North Atlantic right whale is facing extinction due to the failure of government protections, with at least 50% of deaths attributed to ship collisions and fishing gear entanglements. The species has seen a significant increase in mortality rates over the past 16 months, including six adult females with near-term fetuses.

SourceFlorida State University·JournalScience·DateJul 22, 2005

Shark skin saves naval industry money

Researchers developed an artificial shark skin made of elastic silicone, reducing contact surface for barnacles to attach. This technology enables ships to 'self-clean' and reduces fouling by 67%, providing an alternative anti-fouling strategy crucial for the naval industry.

SourceSociety for Experimental Biology·DateJul 15, 2005
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Ali Nayfeh earns Virginia's Lifetime Achievement in Science award

Nayfeh has made significant contributions to the field of nonlinear dynamics, including developing a new methodology for controlling ship motions and analyzing acoustic waves in aircraft engine-duct systems. His work has improved the understanding of complex phenomena such as subharmonic and superharmonic resonances in ships and boats.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateFeb 17, 2005

Surf's up: Professor using models to predict huge waves

A Texas A&M University professor has developed a detailed wave prediction system that provides forecasts for two days ahead. The system uses data from NOAA and complex mathematical models to predict wave conditions, including height and timing.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateFeb 15, 2005

Iceberg poses no threat to Antarctic personnel

The massive iceberg B-15A poses no obstacle to the resupply ships at McMurdo Station, with the U.S. Coast Guard icebreaker Polar Star on track to clear a channel through the sea ice. NSF has arranged for a backup icebreaker to assist if necessary.

SourceU.S. National Science Foundation·DateDec 16, 2004
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Titanic disaster: New theory fingers coal fire

A new theory proposes that a coal fire in the Titanic's coal bunker may have led to its high-speed sailing through an iceberg field. The theory, presented by Dr. Essenhigh, suggests that the crew was trying to control and extinguish the fire before reaching port.

SourceGeological Society of America·DateNov 5, 2004

Cruise ships -- An alternative to assisted living facilities for the elderly?

A new study suggests that cruise ship living could be an attractive option for seniors who enjoy travel and require some assistance with daily activities. The research found that cruise ship living results in higher quality care over a 20-year period, despite being $2,000 more expensive than traditional assisted living facilities.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Geriatrics Society·DateOct 27, 2004

Major missile defense study published

A new study published by the American Physical Society finds that boosting-phase defense systems have significant limitations, making them impractical against many potential threats. The report highlights issues with timing and range, limiting the effectiveness of boost-phase defenses.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·JournalReviews of Modern Physics·DateOct 15, 2004

Hardy buoys: Texas A&M project predicts oil spill movements

The Texas Automated Buoy System (TABS) uses nine buoys to predict oil spill movements, saving the state up to $250,000 in cleanup costs. The buoys also aid in locating ship passengers lost overboard and helped retrieve the Ehime Maru, a Japanese vessel sunk by a U.S. submarine.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateSep 15, 2004
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Mowing back antennas

The Navy is developing a new radio frequency concept, AMRF-C, to enable a limited number of transmit and receive antennas to handle multiple communications, radar, and electronic warfare functions. The goal is to reduce costs and improve performance by leveling so-called 'antenna forests'.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateMay 18, 2004

Internet2 may change the way scientists conduct research

Scientists can now spend an unlimited amount of time on the bottom of the ocean, sharing observations in real-time with colleagues worldwide. Internet2 technology was tested during a Black Sea expedition, allowing for the transmission of underwater video images and acoustic signals.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalEos·DateApr 5, 2004

Hybrids on the high seas

Fuel cells offer improved efficiency, low emissions, and design flexibility for naval vessels, slashing shipbuilding costs. The Navy's ONR is testing a diesel fuel reformer to develop a proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell, which will be capable of between 37-52 percent efficiency.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateMar 5, 2004

University of Delaware lays keel for new research vessel

The University of Delaware has launched a new, 146-foot coastal research vessel to replace its aging ship, Cape Henlopen. The vessel will feature state-of-the-art modular design and clean operation, meeting international underwater noise standards.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateFeb 23, 2004
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

UK needs more seafarers

A study by Cardiff University predicts a current annual shortfall of UK ex-seafarers as much as 112. This shortage could lead to higher wage bills for shipping companies, reduced quality of employment, and less incentive to train cadets. The shipping industry has traditionally supplied skilled labor to shore-based industries.

SourceCardiff University·DateFeb 18, 2004
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Researchers develop system to detect biowarfare agents on navy ships

Ohio State University researchers developed a three-tiered biowarfare agent detection system for Navy ships, using portable hand-held assays and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests. This allows for quick detection of suspected biological agents, enabling medical personnel to provide timely treatment.

SourceOhio State University·DateSep 9, 2003

Men, mammals, and machines

A team of Marine Corps reconnaissance swimmers, Navy SEALS, Explosive Ordnance divers, dolphins, and REMUS worked together to clear mines from Iraq's port. REMUS successfully located potential targets, allowing the dolphins to inspect and report back on its findings.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateJun 30, 2003

Portable CT scanner joins hunt for alternative energy

Researchers have developed a portable CT scanner that enables real-time, on-site analysis of gas hydrates in core samples, revolutionizing the search for alternative energy sources. The innovative system uses a medical CT scanner and reduces its size to analyze hundreds of x-ray scans into one high-resolution image.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateJun 12, 2003

Non-toxic anti-fouling coating for ships

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a non-toxic paint that effectively prevents marine fouling by creating a self-cleaning surface. The hydrophilic and hydrophobic materials, tested by the ONR and other collaborators, deny bacteria a compatible surface to grow on, reducing fouling.

SourceCornell University·DateMar 27, 2003
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Mixed-nationality ships work 'surprisingly well' study

A study of multinational crews found they work effectively when conditions are right, with good relationships between ethnic groups. However, communication is the main challenge, leading to loneliness and isolation if crew members don't speak the ship language fluently.

SourceCardiff University·DateJan 24, 2003

Meanwhile, back to barnacles...

The US Navy is developing new antifouling hull coatings inspired by nature, using complex nanometer-scale patterns to prevent barnacles from attaching. These coatings have shown exceptional low settlement rates in early experiments, promising a reduction in fuel costs and frequent cleaning needs for Navy ships.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateJan 18, 2003

Inspections sharply reduce diarrhea outbreaks on cruise ships

A study by the Center for Advancing Health found that regular inspections can significantly reduce diarrhea outbreaks on cruise ships. The inspection pass-fail mark of 86 percent is linked to a lower incidence of gastrointestinal symptoms.

SourceCenter for Advancing Health·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateDec 12, 2002

Felling antenna forests

The Office of Naval Research (ONR) is developing an Advanced Multi-Function Radio-Frequency Concept (AMRF-C) antenna aperture that can integrate radar and communications functions, reducing the need for separate antennas and increasing stealth.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateDec 2, 2002
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Artificial intelligence, swimmer detectors, and blast resistant structures

The US Navy is funding a diverse range of international science programs to address key security challenges. These programs focus on developing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, underwater swimmer detectors, and blast-resistant structures to support anti-terrorism and force protection efforts.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateNov 2, 2002

New nanoparticle coating mimics dolphin skin

A new nanoparticle coating developed by researchers at Washington University in St. Louis mimics the natural properties of dolphin skin to prevent biofouling on ship hulls. The coating's complex surface features make it difficult for marine organisms to attach, reducing friction and drag.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·DateOct 28, 2002

Leaner, meaner carriers

The Navy is exploring the use of HSLA-65 steel in its next-generation aircraft carriers to reduce weight and increase service life. Preliminary calculations suggest that this new steel can provide equal or greater service life than traditional high-strength steel, but be thinner and weigh less.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateSep 3, 2002

St. Louis chemist wins national award for inventing new materials

A St. Louis chemist has won a national award for developing innovative materials, including durable ship coatings that repel barnacles without polluting the environment. Her research also explores degradable polymers for medical applications, such as transporting cancer drugs to their targets.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 13, 2002
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Mice provide insight into bone metabolism disorders

Researchers created mice lacking SHIP gene to understand how bone forms and breaks down in diseases like JPD. The study reveals that mice with deficient SHIP develop osteoclasts similar to those found in humans with JPD, leading to severely osteoporotic conditions.

SourceWashU Medicine·JournalNature Medicine·DateAug 4, 2002

Ominous signs of cryptic marine invasions

Researchers suspect that a six-armed brittlestar, common in shallow coral reefs, may have invaded the western Atlantic via ships over the past two centuries. Genetic markers indicate massive long-distance dispersal and recent mixing of populations from the Pacific and Indian Ocean, raising concerns about ecological consequences.

SourceSmithsonian Tropical Research Institute·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society of London·DateMay 10, 2002

Navy's new 'gunk-o-lyzer'?

The LaserNet Fines instrument uses algorithms based on neural networking to analyze particulate matter, making accurate predictions with 97% accuracy. This technology has immense potential for improving the Navy's safety and readiness while reducing costs in multiple industries, including railroad, trucking, and construction.

SourceOffice of Naval Research·DateApr 24, 2002

Riverways create as much pollution as highways

A new study reveals that river traffic emits substantial nitrogen oxide, fine particulate matter, and sulfur oxides pollution, rivaling that of highways. The research, led by James J. Corbett, finds boat and ship emissions contribute significantly to regional air quality, particularly in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 19, 2002
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.