Programs Blog

Sunday, 20 July 2025

Position: (Lat and Long): 42 deg 25.5’N x 069 deg 52.9’W

Ship Heading (degrees): 095 psc

Ship Speed (knots): 5 knots

Log (nm): 178.3nm

Weather / Wind / Sail Plan (from 1300 Watch Change): Fair weather now with SW breeze Beaufort Force 4, sailing under the four lowers, but thunderstorms approaching.

Description of location: Leaving Stellwagen Bank, heading east to deeper waters.

(0100) An early start at the lab, consisted of mostly data analysis. We first examined our Neuston net results by filtering out larger objects. We then partook in 100 counts, where you pick through plankton under a microscope to find out what species are there. We next filtered water to extract chlorophyll-a for future analysis.

(1500) We then took our findings to show other peers on the boat. The data showed that the salinity (SSS) remains about constant and the sea temperature (SST) fluctuates between 17 degree Celsius and 22 degree Celsius depending on time of day and depth.

Watch A group also presented their studies on weather forecast system’s map to peers, specifically the key and how to read it. They explained the different symbols, most notably weather barbs and the hot/cold front lines. They discussed differences between the high and low pressure systems, and the effect that has.

(1900) after hearing news of a storm the boat was getting prepped. Sails taken down, lines coiled, gear stored and put away ready for some heavy swells. The sweat of anticipation beading down our foreheads some nervous some sea sick and many anticipating the arrival of a grim night. After taking down sails we quickly turned on the motor and sailed out the storm to safety. (2130)

A-Watch students