I work with autonomous ocean robots that roam the global seas. These robots, called Argo floats, measure ocean heat, oxygen, and phytoplankton concentrations, among other things. Because the robots measure down to depths of 2000m, their data nicely complements measurements from satellites, which are from the ocean surface. The ocean robots can also measure underneath the sea ice, a part of the ocean that is very difficult to access. Their data have shown that phytoplankton start to grow in spring long before the sea ice has fully melted. These kinds of findings are only possible because all data from Argo floats are freely shared, and because many nations work together to support the global program.
Research keyword/s: Ocean robots, phytoplankton
About the BEAKER STREET ROVING SCIENTIST PROGRAM
Each August, hundreds of Roving Scientists descend upon Hobart, filling up pubs and chatting to strangers as part of Beaker Street Festival. Discover a new world down the lens of microscope, and joining the least-boring bar conversations you’ve ever heard and these free (the chats – not the drinks) events.
For Scientists, Beaker Street’s Roving Scientist Program offers an excellent outreach, professional development, and networking opportunity. It’s the nerdiest and funnest way to share your research with the public, expand your network, and be inspired by leaders in all sectors of science and science communication.
