A transponder is deployed! Once transponders are anchored on the seafloor, vehicles are deployed. While we are exploring the seafloor with underwater vehicles, these transponders constantly report our position relative to the fixed points. This information is merged with a mix of sensors, enabling us to methodically and systematically survey the seafloor, and create detailed maps of our sensor data which will allow future scientists to document changes to the site over time. Image courtesy of Project PHAEDRA 2006, WHOI, HCMR, Thera Foundation, NOAA.
