The largest known sponge is about the size of a minivan. It was found in 2015 at a depth of 2,130 meters (7,000 feet). During NOAA Ocean Exploration’s 2015 Hohonu Moana: Exploring Deepwaters off ...

The power of environmental DNA (eDNA) to help us decode the mysteries of the deep is undeniable. The ability to detect marine species by the DNA they leave behind in water samples has revolutionized ...

Throughout the expedition, I have worked alongside the mapping team to collect and process hydrographic data. We ensure the quality of the data before sending it to shore to be made available for ...

Increase mapping coverage of deepwater regions of American Samoa and the south and central Pacific Ocean. Beginning on September 24, NOAA Ocean Exploration will spend several days mapping unexplored ...

If you’ve enjoyed any classic books or movies that involve sailing on the open ocean, you might have some preconceived notions of what a voyage lasting many weeks would feel like. Maybe you picture ...

Teachers model and observe deep, cold-water currents around a seamount as part of the Student Investigation: Seamounts and Biological Productivity.

The workshop was instructed by Isabel (Bel) Halatuituia, Education Coordinator at National Marine Sanctuary of American Samoa, Suraida Nañez-James, NOAA Ocean Exploration workshop facilitator, and ...

From August 19 to 20, 2026, 40 educators from across American Samoa gathered at the Tauese P.F. Sunia Ocean Center for a two-day professional development workshop focused on deep-sea science and ...

The trackline and area of operations for the 2026 Pacific Islands Mapping expedition (EX2604). The inset depicts a close-up of the area around Jarvis Island where extensive bathymetric mapping data ...

From this video, which shows the beautiful characteristic spiral of Iridogorgia corals, it’s not hard to see why these corals are sometimes likened to fireworks. This genus of deep-sea corals is in ...