Data and Samples
Collecting data and samples on a cruise allows the scientists at sea to study. By bringing them back to shore this information can be placed in collections and repositories; to be shared and used over and over again.
Data
The data collected on research cruises will go to international database repositories such as the British Oceanographic Data Centre. This data can then be access by scientists from all around the world, but what do they use the data for?
Data can be used to two main ways:
- To verify models or theories, and confirm understanding, or if it does not;
- Provide better parameterisation so that models and theories can be improved.
Research vessels log data from many different instruments. Measurements about the air, the sea and the ship’s position are all routinely stored. Here at NOC there are two groups that use a lot of the data collected. Marine Physics and Ocean Climate (MPOC) group collect the measurements, sometimes using specialised equipment to get more detailed and accurate data. They then use this data to create mathematical descriptions of the physical process observed. The Marine Systems Modelling group are more theory based; they produce models that will predict behaviour in the weather or eco-systems. They work closely with the MPOC group and the Met Office, and use the data to validate their models.
Samples
Bringing samples back from a cruise not only allows others to study the material, but it also enables different studies to take place. Some specialist equipment cannot be transported so instead the material is taken to it. This results in a more detailed analysis or better preservation of the sample. NOC is home to a number of collections held by both NERC and the University of Southampton.
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Sediment Cores - British Ocean Sediments Core Research Facility
Sediment cores are an expensive and unique resource of immense scientific value, analysis of which can provide clues about climate change, conditions in past oceans and sedimentary processes. The British Ocean Sediment Core Research Facility (BOSCORF), based at NOC Southampton, is the UK’s national deep-sea core repository. Read more about sediment cores →
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Marine Life Collections
Marine life samples are only taken after very careful consideration about why they are needed and how to make the most use of them. Discover the reasons for keeping them and how it helps advance our knowledge. Read more about the various marine life collections →
