Journals 2006/2007

Gioya DeSouza-Fennelly
IS 143-Eleanor Roosevelt Middle School, NY, New York

"Conducting an East-West Atlantic transect to investigate the coupling between atmospheric and oceanic organic pollutants" R/V Endeavor June 20 - July 9, 2006

Journal Index: June 20 - 21 - 22 - 23 - 24 - 25 - 26         27 - 28 - 29 - 30 July 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - 5 - 6 - 7 - 8 - 9 Additional Resources

June 23, 2006
Sunset - Sunrise!

We have set up a schedule to change the air filters at sunrise (4 am) and at sunset (7:45 pm). We needed to have the bridge give us a wake up call. It is impossible to tell what time it is in the stateroom since there are no portholes. Our data collection procedures are now streamlined. It was very windy on the fly bridge and climbing up the steep stairs with the flow meter and other equipment in our hands is very dangerous. We usually communicate in sign language because the wind is so strong. The positive side to the early morning and evening air filter changes are the beautiful sunrises and sunsets while we work. The work area set up by David makes things very efficient.

Sunrise		Sunset

The special wet lab equipment is working fine. We are running the maximum amount of water possible. We change the GF/F when the water flow rate slows and the puffs after every 1000 liters.

As an independent science project, I decided to study the natural rate of evaporation of seawater in the formation of sea salt. I measured 8 cups of seawater into a plastic container measuring 14" x 10". The seawater was 0.8" deep. I placed this container on deck in a sunny spot. It will be interesting to see the outcome of this experiment.

At 1:45 pm I waited on the bridge for the phone call from Rhode Island. It was interesting to speak with the other ARMADA teachers. I am glad I had David (Tech) and Joe (Second Mate) to answer some of the questions related to the R/V Endeavor.

The wind direction changed and we hade to turn off the air filters from 7pm to 9pm to avoid absorbing the ships exhaust.

Mike, the ships Chef (he is a graphic designer and a member of Mensa) cooked the most fabulous dinner tonight. His creativity shows in his meal preparation.

Dessert on board the Endeavor

I realize how lucky to be doing research on R/V Endeavor. One could not have asked for a better crew. It is like being with family. At 8:00 pm we all watched Star Wars and had popcorn.