The scientific purpose of Expedition 328 was to install a new subseafloor observatory (ACORK) at Site 889 that mon­itored pressure at different depths in the ocean floor over time.  The information recorded was used to study a broad range of objectives and helped us better understand gas hydrate formation in a region where sediments are being deposited at a convergent plate boundary.

At a later date, submersibles will be used to deploy additional instruments such as sensors that record sea­floor and formation pressure and downhole instruments that measure temperature, tilt, and seismic ground mo­tion.  These will be connected to a fiber-optic cable for power and real-time communications from land.

Expedition 328 was also host to the School of Rock 2010, Deep Earth Academy’s signature professional development program for educators. During School of Rock, participants spent 12-hour days working along-side a dynamite team of instructors and crew who guided them in their own exploration of cores, CORKS, and logging data from the Cascadia region and beyond. Using the high-tech laboratories on board, and their own observational and problem-solving skills, they were challenged to integrate diverse sets of data from deep in the ocean floor to recreate the geology and history of the Earth.  Much of their experience also involved developing programs and products that focus on their experience, the JOIDES Resolution, and scientific ocean drilling.

What will the Rockers be doing? Their 12-hour days will be spent working along-side a dynamite team of instructors and crew who will guide them in their own exploration of cores, CORKS, and logging data from the Cascadia region and beyond. Using the high-tech laboratories on board, and their own observational and problem-solving skills, they will be challenged to integrate diverse sets of data from deep in the ocean floor to recreate the geology and history of the Earth.  Much of their experience will also involve developing programs and products that focus on their experience, the JOIDES Resolution, and scientific ocean drilling.

Click to learn more about the School of Rock 2010 participants.