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The days are seemingly long but the weeks are so short offshore! Today is day 20 on my journey around the world. Even as Leg 1 of our trip has come to a close, the work never ceases. Monthly, weekly, and even daily there is maintenance and upkeep that makes a ship operate smoothly.

Our CTD rosette took a few dips into the water on this leg of the cruise, and it was time for some much needed TLC. In addition to a classic fresh water wash, the weights attached to the frame got a new stunning, hi-vis look. Previously, they were painted to keep the rust away. We noticed that the paint had begun to chip off, and there was a high likelihood of paint chips contaminating our water samples. Without the proper materials to repaint them onboard, we had to get creative with a temporary solution of tape. One of the things I have learned the quickest is outside of the box thinking. You must become self sufficient while offshore, as all you have is what is in your ship stores!

As we rolled back into port in beautiful Phuket, Thailand, the scientists of Leg 1 prepared the way for those of Leg 2. On the bow, scientists Charlotte and Carlyn taught me how to do some of the daily maintenance and cleaning of their instruments, collectively known as PYSAS. As we began this Leg of the cruise, the marine tech and I were able to help set up the machine. It is very rewarding to come back and learn how to maintain it as well, and hopefully help to deconstruct it once the cruise is over. Scientific support is what my education has prepared me for, and it is definitely proving to be invaluable in this experience. This was also the International Day for Women in Maritime! I am constantly inspired by the women I see working hard in STEM, and it was great to appreciate the work being done by Charlotte and Carlyn. Thank you to every woman in the maritime industry, keep reaching for your goals and making an impact!

The science crew for Leg 1 has officially parted ways with us, moving on to their next grand mission. It is fantastic to see people from so many different backgrounds, coming together with one common goal. Best of luck, everyone! Go forth and do science!

As is often the case in the marine industry, plans change. Rather often in fact! As we are anchored in port, we await both dock space and a delivery of containers. The days get extended, and we find solutions as best we can. This has given the crew an excellent chance to stretch our land legs! The people in charge of the ship have very kindly made arrangements for both a shuttle boat to get us to the pier, and a scheduled taxi van to get us into the center of town.

Phuket has a rich cultural essence, fantastic architecture, and bustling markets. Endless stalls sell fresh-caught fish and lobsters, handmade goods, and tropical fruit. If you dare, you can even suffer the experience of eating durian. Good luck!

As we continue making preparations for Leg 2 of our cruise, we get to see how vibrant Thailand truly is. The marine industry is wide and active here, and it is a wonderful thing to see how tradition, culture, and the local economy intersect. With each large container ship that passes us by, there is a local fishing boat with a small tiller engine, full of people feeding their families and communities. I look out at the islands with awe, struck by how truly wild an oceanic jungle can be. Until next time, I’ll be here eating fresh watermelon and swabbing the deck!

Micah Barton – God Bless – 05/20/2025

Science While Underway – 03

By Micah Barton

On May 13, 2025

In R/V Thomas G. Thompson, University of Washington, School of Oceanography

Today marks my 13th day aboard the R/V Thomas G. Thompson. What a fantastic whirlwind so far! The science crew onboard has gotten up to a little bit of everything, and it has been a privilege to be a part of the action. This cruise has had its fair share of deployments, recoveries, troubleshooting, and deck operations under the searing sun.

The ABs and the Marine Technicians aboard have a special role to play while assisting the scientific crew with their mission. Safety of both people and gear is of the utmost priority when working on the deck. With the help of the experienced crew, the science team can rest assured that their gear will get into the water with no incident. Using the A-frame, a large winch powered lift on the stern, we can pick up large gear and deploy it into the water. As the Marine Tech intern, I was allowed to operate the A-frame for a few deployments (That’s me at the controls in the photo, hi me!). We helped the science team deploy 4 wave gliders and 3 sea gliders, as well as countless wave drifters. Each instrument has a specific purpose, and measures a different ocean parameter. The data collected by this equipment is vital to oceanographic research and works towards the scientists ultimate goals.

Another aspect of research at sea is troubleshooting. One of the wave gliders that we had previously deployed was having some issues, according to the software connected. The science team made the decision to bring the glider back on board, and attempt to repair it. This time, we used the starboard side crane to retrieve the drifter from the water. In this situation, as you can tell from the photo above, there are many moving parts that everyone on deck must be aware of in order to avoid accidents. We work slowly and thoroughly, talking through each phase of the operation so that everyone is aware of what is going to happen. Through patience, team work and coordination, the drifter was recovered successfully! The science team got well under way with their repairs, and we re-deployed it.

Science never sleeps on board, not when there is data to be collected! Arguably, what we have done the most of is UCTD operations. This is a device that is towed behind the ship, and collects sea water parameters as we move, such as conductivity, temperature, and water depth. We pulled the UCTD for up to 6 hours straight, for several days. This operation requires two people on deck at all times, meaning we had to work in shifts to ensure that everyone was able to rest fully. Often times, we would pull the probe through the night, and into the wee hours of the morning. We’re willing to do anything for the data!

As the first leg of this research cruise is coming to a close, we are all still busy as ever. Breaking down equipment, preparing for port call, and getting the ship ready for the next set of scientists is no easy task! Though it is sad to see the first round of scientists move on to their next mission, the next group will need our help to get their scientific mission underway. So, it’s a good thing we’re here to help!

Micah Barton -God Bless – 05/13/2025

Mobilization- 02

By Micah Barton

On May 6, 2025

In R/V Thomas G. Thompson, University of Washington, School of Oceanography

Three flights, two cabs, and one boat ride later, at long last I have R/V Thomas G. Thompson within my sights!

Flying international solo for the first time was nerve racking to be sure. In my home airport, I waved goodbye to my family. In LAX, I struggled to find my gate. In HKG, I had a tight squeeze to make my connecting flight! But finally, in Thailand, I have made it aboard my new home for the next 6 weeks.

The first day, I was amazed with how large the ship is. I have sailed before on much smaller vessels, and this was definitely the first time I have been worried about getting lost on a boat! Now, on the 7th day aboard, I feel I have found the lay of the land. Err, sea? Anyways…

In the beautiful port of Phuket, Thailand, we pulled anchor on the morning of the 1st of May and set sail! Everyone on board got busy with their work as we began transit to our first science station. The captain, science crew, and the technicians have been working together to get through the EEZ’s, which is a zone we cannot sample or log data in. Because of international restrictions, transit days can be limited in the science that can be conducted on board the ship. In no way does that mean we don’t keep busy! Even though we can’t do any science, we still have much to accomplish. While shadowing the Marine Technicians aboard, I have already had many opportunities to refine my abilities and learn new skills;

We have terminated the winch wire to our CTD.
We have problem solved HTML coding issues.
We have found creative workarounds for connection issues.
I have begun the deep dive of learning wiki syntax.
We have tested on board sensors, plumbing, and electrical components.
We certified that the UCTD system is functioning properly.

As the science teams set up is being assembled, and the days of data are quickly approaching, I am thankful for the opportunity to observe and be a part of something so exciting. The crew and staff aboard the TGT has been very welcoming and fantastically helpful. I can’t wait to see where the next few weeks take us, and to be able to be apart of the science operations coming soon. Special shout out to Maria for helping me get to where I am in this process!

Fair winds and following seas to you!

Micah Barton – 04/21/2025

Introduction- Micah Barton

By Micah Barton

On April 22, 2025

In R/V Thomas G. Thompson, University of Washington, School of Oceanography

Voyage Beginnings – 01

Hello sailors and scallywags! My name is Micah Barton. I am a recent graduate of Cape Fear Community College, with an associates degree in Marine Technology. The privilege of a high quality education has forever changed my life for the better, and I have developed a deep love and passion for marine sciences. Every moment has been wonderful, from surveying in the rain, watching sharks circle the trawl, troubleshooting software for hours, and even to counting thousands of shrimp- fantastic. I can’t imagine my life without it. I have an amazing crew of educators and classmates that have worked tirelessly and pushed me to make it this far; I work hard every day to make them proud!

This is a picture of my last cruise at CFCC aboard the R/V Cape Hatteras. Since day one of sailing, I knew that there was no going back for me- life at sea or bust! Like countless others before me, I have felt the breeze on my cheek and heard the voice of the sea;

Voice of the sea that calls to me,
Heart of the woods my own heart loves,
I am part of your mystery—
Moved by the soul your own soul moves.

Dream of the stars in the night-sea’s dome,
Somewhere in your infinite space
After the years I will come home,
Back to your halls to claim my place.

by William Stanley Braithwaite

Here I am! I love to fish, explore, and create. I will be starting my internship on the R/V Thomas G. Thompson. Through this blog I hope to share my journey, my perspectives, and the things I learn along the way. Thank you for joining me, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds!

Micah Barton – 04/21/2025

Final Dispatch from the RV Sikuliaq – Cybersecurity in the Wild

By Raymond Gallant

On April 20, 2025

In R/V Sikuliaq, University of Alaska Fairbanks

The SECURE-IT cyber training cruise aboard the R/V Sikuliaq has come to an end, and I’m writing this final post while taking in the cold Alaskan air after days of navigating the Pacific. It’s hard to put into words how transformative this experience has been, both technically and personally.

Each day onboard was a full-immersion dive into maritime cybersecurity and cyberinfrastructure. We configured segmented networks using Fortinet firewalls, utilized Proxmox virtual environments, and worked with legacy systems still commonly found in real-world maritime operations. We tackled bandwidth limitations, satellite communications, and network segmentation in a way that mirrored actual at-sea constraints—and that’s not something you can fully simulate in a classroom.

One of the most impactful parts of this experience was the people. Having such a diverse crew—ranging from seasoned technologists and marine technicians to undergraduate students from across the country—created an environment rich in what’s known as tacit knowledge. These are the kinds of insights that aren’t always written down—techniques, workarounds, and instincts that come from time spent in the field. Watching the experienced professionals troubleshoot or explain their setups gave me a much deeper appreciation for the human element in technical problem-solving.

Another standout for me was having Tyler Peterson, a former MATE intern, onboard. His background as a marine technician and his experience with more traditional MATE internships helped bridge the gap between the classic marine tech path and this first-of-its-kind cruise focused on Information Technology, cybersecurity, and cyberinfrastructure. While we weren’t supporting an active science mission during this cruise, Tyler helped connect the dots between shipboard IT systems and how they ultimately enable and support scientific research. That context was incredibly valuable—it made the purpose behind the tech we were building feel real and relevant.

Something else that really stuck with me: it takes a variety of disciplines to make scientific research at sea possible. From satellite communications and data acquisition systems to physical deployments like the ARGO floats, the cruise was a reminder that meaningful science only happens when engineers, IT professionals, technicians, and scientists work in harmony. This cruise wasn’t just a training exercise—it was a snapshot of what that collaboration can look like in action.

One of the personal highlights: I earned three cybersecurity certifications during this cruise—two from Fortinet and one awarded by the R/V Sikuliaq team. These credentials not only boosted my technical skill set, but also marked a real milestone in my journey toward becoming a cybersecurity professional in the maritime world.

Massive thanks to the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) for hosting, Fortinet for the technical resources, the MATE program for making this internship possible, the crew of the R/V Sikuliaq, and everyone who made this adventure happen. Special shoutout to Julian Race for leading the charge and creating space for real hands-on learning. I’m leaving this cruise sharper, more inspired, and more confident in my future as a cybersecurity professional in the maritime space.

Until next time—signing off from the Gulf of Alaska.

Cybersecurity at Sea – Aboard the R/V Sikuliaq

By Raymond Gallant

On April 14, 2025

In R/V Sikuliaq, University of Alaska Fairbanks

Hello! I’m currently writing from my newly designated workstation aboard the R/V Sikuliaq, docked at the University of Hawaiʻi Marine Center in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. We are scheduled to get underway later this evening. The Sikuliaq, operated by the University of Alaska Fairbanks, is a 261-foot ice-capable research vessel, and our current expedition—SEACURE-IT—is focused on advancing cybersecurity practices in maritime environments.

Our mission centers on understanding and strengthening shipboard cybersecurity infrastructure. Today’s focus was building a simulated research vessel network using Fortinet hardware, including a FortiGate next-generation firewall and a FortiSwitch managed switch. Each virtual vessel was named after a Star Trek captain, and I’m pleased to report that the R/V Christopher Pike is now fully operational.

To bring the system online, we began by installing the firewall and switch hardware, gaining access through the serial console port. From there, we configured a VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) and assigned appropriate switch ports. After establishing basic connectivity, we implemented firewall rules to enable WAN access for the VLAN while maintaining strict segmentation between networks.

One of the critical lessons in maritime cybersecurity is the need to separate Information Technology (IT) systems from Operational Technology (OT). Onboard vessels, OT systems (such as industrial controllers managing propulsion, navigation, and critical mechanical systems) are sometimes based on legacy architectures and lack modern security hardening. Allowing these to share a network with IT systems—or worse, exposing them to the internet—creates serious vulnerabilities. Our firewall policy design reflects this reality, ensuring the IT and OT VLANs remain isolated. It is also best practice to separate these networks so that everyday users do not accidentally interfere with critical operations.

After confirming secure internet access on the IT VLAN, we deployed a lightweight Ubuntu virtual machine using the Proxmox hypervisor. While running on limited hardware, the system performs well thanks to the efficiency of Ubuntu, enabling us to simulate key cybersecurity operations within our constrained environment.

To put our network control to the test, I implemented a multi-layered blocking policy targeting a known security concern: TikTok. Using FortiGate’s Application Control, DNS Filtering, and Web Filtering capabilities, I successfully restricted access to TikTok domains and traffic patterns. As a result, no devices on our network can currently access the platform—a practical example of layered defense and policy enforcement in a live environment.

This experience has already been invaluable. I’m gaining exposure not only to enterprise-grade network security tools, but also to the nuances of securing mission-critical systems aboard research vessels.

Introduction – RaymondJames

By Raymond Gallant

On March 28, 2025

In R/V Sikuliaq, University of Alaska Fairbanks

Hello, I’m RaymondJames Gallant, a cybersecurity student at Eastern New Mexico University and a 2025 MATE intern. I’ll soon be embarking on a cyber internship aboard the RV Sikuliaq, where I’ll be learning firsthand how cybersecurity supports maritime research and operations. I’m passionate about protecting critical infrastructure and excited to explore the intersection of technology and ocean science. I’ll be using this blog to document my experiences, growth, and reflections throughout the journey—thanks for following along!

Internship Overview – Ethan

By Ethan Wadsworth

On March 20, 2025

In Columbia University, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, R/V Marcus G. Langseth

Hello everyone,

I’ve spent the past week aboard the Marcus G. Langseth, gaining valuable exposure to its unique labs and state-of-the-art oceanographic equipment. On my first day, I had the opportunity to tour several areas of the ship, including the Main, Wet, Dry, and Port Labs, as well as the Gun Shop, Bird Shack, and Muster Station. Each of these spaces offered insight into the operations and specialized functions aboard the vessel.

Throughout the week, my fellow interns and I worked closely with our mentor, Cody Bahlau, on a variety of tasks around the ship. One of the daily activities we assisted with was performing the BIST for the swath mapping sonar, ensuring its functionality, and resetting the weather station.

I also participated in the weekly gravity check and gravity tie, a critical task to ensure that the gravimeter remains properly calibrated and provides accurate readings. To complete the gravity tie, I traveled to the pier where the Land Tie was performed. Since tide height can vary, we took measurements from the pier to the water at three different stages: when the tie began, at 50% completion, and when it finished. This process allows us to account for the tide’s effect on the gravity measurements. Once the gravimeter was confirmed to be working accurately, we carefully prepared it for transport by placing it into its protective case, securing its batteries, and carefully moving it up to the Wet Lab, all while ensuring it remained powered throughout the process.

In addition to the technical tasks, we were also involved in some practical maintenance work. We helped secure loose items on deck in preparation for transit, organized and restocked personal protective equipment (PPE), and spent a considerable amount of time over two days cleaning and constructing new desk spaces for the Dry Lab. Building these desks was an unexpected yet highly rewarding experience. Because the ship’s environment requires extra durability, we made sure the desks were sturdy enough to withstand movement and could be securely bolted to the floor. To accomplish this, we used metal framing for the desk skeleton, ensuring it could be anchored to the ship’s floor. We then cut and fitted the top, side, and back panels to add further stability, improve the overall aesthetic of the lab, and hide wires and cables. This hands-on project allowed me to work with various power tools, including a chop saw, angle grinder, and buzz saw—skills I was excited to develop.

Overall, this experience has been a fantastic blend of technical work and practical skills, giving me the chance to work with cutting-edge equipment and learn valuable hands-on techniques. Unfortunately, due to changes in the ship’s transit schedule and an extended length of travel, I won’t be able to stay aboard the Langseth for its journey to Cape Verde. Nevertheless, this has been an unforgettable experience, and I truly hope I’ll have the opportunity to work aboard a vessel as impressive as the Marcus G. Langseth again in the future.

Week 3 – Arriving at Cape Verde/ End on Internship – Will

By Will Eltringham

On March 20, 2025

In Columbia University, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, R/V Marcus G. Langseth

Hello for the last time from the R/V Langseth! As I am writing this, I am about 100 nautical miles from arriving at the island of Sao Vicente, part of the Cape Verde archipelago! While my time aboard the Langseth has been relatively short, it has been nothing short of an amazing and worthwhile experience that I would heavily recommend participating in should you have the opportunity!

Early in the week, Theo and I tackled revisions to the DigiBird calibration manual, making it more concise, structured, and user-friendly. We wanted future users to have a clearer, more streamlined guide, and we’re confident our updates will make troubleshooting much easier.

Midweek, we turned our attention to inventorying our equipment, unpacking and inspecting 56 old and new Niskin bottles for damage before organizing them into labeled palletainers. I also got my first experience calibrating Acoustic Pingers, which are much easier to work with compared to DigiBirds. Acoustic Pingers are an essential component of the Langseth’s streamer deployment, as they communicate with not only one another, but also the ship, relaying critical information as to where exactly the streamer currently is in the water. Working up in the protected species observer tower was a nice change of pace—removing and recalibrating Vaisala weather station antennas gave us a reason to soak up the fresh ocean air while still getting things done.

A major highlight of the week was learning about streamer deployment and seismic data acquisition. We unspooled a streamer on deck, attached LAUMs (Line Acquisition Unit Modules), and got hands-on experience using the SEAL 428 seismic recorder system. It was fascinating to see how hydrophone data is converted from analog to digital and how external noise sources, like fishing gear and passing ships, can interfere with data collection.

To end the week, Theo and I tackled the task of replacing the Digibird motor modules that were either bad or paired with bad electronic modules. Cody had recently taught us how to do so, so this allowed us to put his teaching into practice, which we did with great effectiveness! To replace a motor module requires essentially stripping the Digibird of all its interior components, requiring very cautious exactness and patience in order to ensure we do not damage any components during a motor swap.

We were able to complete either a motor swap or a complete haul of every component on every bird we aimed to, allowing us to finish our internship with a great sense of achievement and set the next set of interns up for success, as we tested all spare motors to find which were good and bad so they didnt have to! I can say for sure, I am adept in all things relating to the calibration and troubleshooting of Digibirds!

Thank you for keeping up with my weekly posts, it has been a pleasure sharing the amazing experience I have had. I also want to give a huge thank you to Chief Science Officer and my mentor, Cody Bahlau, for his dedication in seeing that Theo and I succeed, thrive, and take as much advantage of this opportunity as possible. And of course, a huge thank you to the UNOLS-MATE Program Manager Maria Osiadacz for making this opportunity possible and being such a wonderful support throughout the entire internship!

Wishing you the best,

Will

Week 3 — Closing in on Cabo Verde — Theo

By Theo Lafontant Kagan

On March 20, 2025

In Columbia University, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, R/V Marcus G. Langseth

We’re finally closing in on Mindelo in Cabo Verde! We get in tomorrow morning at around 6am, and after that I am headed back to San Diego. This past month has flown by, and I’m super grateful to have had this opportunity—I feel like I have learned so much. I’m looking forward to staying in touch with the technical team and participating in similar opportunities down the line!

Now let me catch you up to speed on this past week. And when I say catch you up to speed, only one thing comes to mind: birgatory. We spent a lot of time working in the Bird Shack this week, and we started off pretty easy working on the Acoustic Pingers. These instruments are very similar to our digibirds except they’re a whole lot simpler: they basically just ping the boat to let us know the location of the streamers in the water behind us. All we had to do was recalibrate them and recharge their batteries. We were bumped up a level in difficulty, however, when we started working on the digibirds with bad motors. This took FOREVER. Let me walk you through testing one bird: you dismantle the bird, carefully dismantle and pull out the compass module, push out the motor and the electronics modules, carefully disconnect the motor from the electronics, carefully reconnect a new motor back to the electronics, reinsert both modules back in the bird, put the whole bird back together, and finally retest the motor functionality. If the bird still doesn’t work, you troubleshoot it by redoing that process all over again with a different motor. If both motors aren’t working, then the electronics module was bad, which meant stripping the bird for parts and retesting both the original and replacement motors. It was definitely hard work and ever-so-slightly mind numbing. At the end of the day, however, (and maybe because I never have to do it again) I can tell you that it was definitely a valuable learning experience for me. In any opportunity moving forward, I know I can calibrate, troubleshoot, and repair sensitive scientific equipment, even if I know very little about the instrument to begin with.

Speaking of sensitive equipment, perhaps the highlight of my week was getting the chance to run through troubleshooting our streamers. We finally got to test out one of the streamers on deck, unspooling the very end before screwing in a few LAUMs (line acquisition unit modules). Following that, we moved downstairs to learn how to read and interpret the data from the hydrophones, and how to troubleshoot the system if something goes wrong. It was super super interesting, and I would love to get more experience doing data analysis and troubleshooting in the Main Lab control room in the future. The program the Langseth team uses, SEAL, models all the data being transmitted from each individual hydrophone along the entire 15km line, as well as every LAUM and FDU (field digitizing unit). This amounts to five hundred something hydrophones for each streamer, half that many FDUs, and a couple dozen LAUMs. It’s pretty incredible technology and was great to experience so closely.

I’d say my final highlight of the week was working up on deck, familiarizing myself with Niskin Bottles and working on the Vaisala Weather stations. This scientific equipment aligns a lot more closely with my own personal interests in biological oceanography, and after a few weeks it was interesting taking a little break from seismology. While we didn’t actually get to apply either of these instruments, I did become pretty familiar with how to take them apart and put them back together again. If I’ve learned anything from this experience, understanding the fundamentals of how something works is a great substitute to deploying an instrument in the field. I know I got a lot more of the former than the latter over the course of this internship, but I am leaving feeling very confident in my ability to perform technical duties aboard a scientific vessel. Again, I am very grateful to have had this opportunity, and I look forward to applying the skills I learned over the course of this internship to future projects.