It's the people



The first thing that often comes to mind on what is needed to collect scientific data in the oceans is the kit. The ship. The streamer. The seismic source. The ocean bottom seismometers.  And we certainly need all of those things to do our science. But far and away, the most important thing is the people.  It would not be possible for the scientific community to make important and innovative observations in the oceans without the expertise, professionalism and commitment of the technical staff and crew of our marine facilities.   The people are unquestionably the most valuable and irreplaceable part of marine scientific endeavors. The marine seismic community has greatly benefitted from the knowledge and dedication of the technical and administrative staff and crew of the R/V Marcus G. Langseth and the ocean bottom seismometer teams from Scripps, WHOI and LDEO.  These people make it work.
The Langseth technical staff celebrating Dave's 10th work anniversary. From left to right: Seis, Tom, Allan, Josh, David, Todd, Shaun (not pictured: Gilles)

Yesterday, we celebrated David Martinson’s 10-year work anniversary at LDEO.  (Well, there is some debate about exactly when Dave started working for LDEO, but everyone agrees it was a long time ago….).  Dave has been an integral part of the success of the Langseth and the collection of many amazing datasets around the world that are helping us understanding fundamental earth processes and geohazards.  We are super lucky to have Dave and the rest of the committed technical staff. Happy 10th, Dave!



Ernie (Scripps) and Todd (LDEO) recover an OBS

Donna Shillington, LDEO

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