Scheduled Cruises in 2004

Summary of a cruise on margins research (US.0412)

Location and cruise identifier :   Sandino Basin, NE. Pacific - EW0412 (NSF OCE02/41179)

Research ship :   Maurice Ewing

Sails :   21st November - 2004 from : Puerto Caldera COSTA RICA

Docks :   22nd December 2004 in : PANAMA

Duration :

Principal Scientist/Investigator :    Craig Fulthorpe

Laboratory :   University of Texas Institute of Geophysics -  here

Other investigators :

E-mail contact for further information :   

Website :   here

Scientific objectives :   Long-term changes in the Earth's climate caused global sea level to rise or fall, as polar ice melted or froze. These changes in sea level are recorded in the sedimentary structures at continental margins. Much of our knowledge on the history of the Earth's climate comes from studying seismic reflection profiles of these structures.

Interpretation of climate signals in margin sediments is complicated by local tectonic forces that cause parts of the margins to rise or subside, independent of climactic changes. This research cruise is designed to help develop the tools and understanding that will enable researchers to separate the climatic and tectonic effects seen in margin sediments.