Operated by the US non-profit Ocean Exploration Trust (OET) and supported by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, E/V Nautilus will work alongside Cook Islands scientists, educators, and community representatives to explore and better understand the deep sea within Marae Moana.
Building Capability in Marine Spatial Planning
The expedition, Deep-Sea Habitats of the Cook Islands, will focus on imaging and cataloguing seabed habitats and biodiversity to improve understanding of the nation’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). All data collected will be made publicly available and shared with the Cook Islands Government to support ethical, science-based decision-making.
Onboard the E/V Nautilus will be participants from the Cook Islands who represent SBMA and National Environment Services (NES), working with international scientists to use advanced tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), high-resolution mapping, and real-time footage.
“This expedition is about learning more about our Marae Moana and its seabed,” said Beverly Ataera, SBM Commissioner of the Seabed Minerals Authority. “SBMA is privileged to work with a wide range of expert partners like NOAA and OET. Engagements over the last few years have seen Cook Islanders gain knowledge, skills, and data that strengthen our ability to conserve and manage our ocean for generations to come.”
Voices of Partnerships
“The government of the Cook Islands engaged with NOAA to gather important data from the deep sea in order to manage its waters, which include a vast and unique region,” said Dr Aurora Elmore, NOAA marine geology expert and science co-lead for the expedition. “We are thrilled to bring this research expedition and advanced technologies to support this important international partnership.”
“We are excited to bring E/V Nautilus to the Cook Islands for the first time, working alongside local partners to conduct science-based exploration of the deep sea,” said Allison Fundis, Chief Operating Officer of OET. “By openly sharing the data and streaming the expedition live, we aim to grow knowledge and support Cook Islanders in stewarding their ocean.”
Engaging the Cook Islands and the World
The expedition will be livestreamed 24/7 on NautilusLive.org, where Cook Islands classrooms, communities, and global audiences can interact directly with the science team at sea. Free educational Q&A sessions will connect Cook Islanders with the researchers throughout the voyage.