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STRC Goals
STRC goals are to investigate seafloor resources and ecosystem dynamics through technological advances in surveying and observing systems. Activities are focused on (1) surveying seafloor features with advanced undersea vehicles and sensors and (2) design and installation of a seafloor observatory to study dynamics and impacts of gas hydrate deposits. |
STRC Research
Current research activities focus on understanding formation and dissociation of gas hydrates, ice-like crystalline structures that encapsulate methane gas molecules. Hydrates are present world-wide in seafloor sediments, may impact seafloor stability and climate change through gas release, and have potential for development as a vast energy resource. To carry out this investigation, the Center is engaged in the science-driven design and deployment of a seafloor observatory in the Gulf of Mexico. Seafloor surveying efforts are focused on advances in high-resolution subbottom profiling technology, improved and quieter seismic profiling and miniaturized low-energy mass spectrometry for gas detection. These technologies are being designed or modified for use on AUVs, such as the NIUST’s Eagle Ray. |
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