This saddle-like  feature was mapped on May 1, 2017, between a unnamed seamount and ridge, just north of the Cook Islands. The area was previously unmapped, so this is the first time this feature has ever been revealed to humans in such detail. Data like these are important because they help scientists to understand the importance between ridge areas and plateaus, as well as the connection between this region and others.

This saddle-like feature was mapped on May 1 between a unnamed seamount and ridge, just north of the Cook Islands. The area was previously unmapped, so this is the first time this feature has ever been revealed to humans in such detail. Data like these are important because they help scientists to understand the importance between ridge areas and plateaus, as well as the connection between this region and others. Image courtesy of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Mountains in the Deep: Exploring the Central Pacific Basin. Download larger version (jpg, 390 KB).

Altimetry data informed us that this ridge feature existed and we selected it as a target for high-resolution bathymetric mapping. Much to our surprise, the ridge turned out to be over a full kilometer higher than previously thought. This is one of the many reasons that high-resolution bathymetry mapping is so important. It allows us to better understand our planet.

Altimetry data informed us that this ridge feature existed and we selected it as a target for high-resolution bathymetric mapping. Much to our surprise, the ridge turned out to be over a full kilometer higher than previously thought. This is one of the many reasons that high-resolution bathymetry mapping is so important — it allows us to better understand our planet. Image courtesy of the NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research, Mountains in the Deep: Exploring the Central Pacific Basin. Download larger version (jpg, 352 KB).

Back in the Saddle Again
May 1, 2017

NOAA Ship Okeanos Explorer continued mapping operations today, with special focus on the connection point between two of the prevalent features of region – a ridge and a large seamount. This was a priority area to map, as these data help scientists visualize these seafloor features. Multibeam maps help scientists determine whether connections exist between these features and define the geological origin. We were able to obtain high-quality bathymetric data, as depicted in the top image. After we finished collecting these data, we transited to our next dive site. We then collected additional mapping data along the crest of a ridge that runs parallel to the edge of the Manikiki Plateau. Overnight we will also map our next dive site along this ridge that we are calling Te Kawhiti a Maui Potiki. Data visualizations allow us to pick our dive sites based on fresh bathymetry.