The final weeks of expedition MSM132 were marked by intensive research, exciting discoveries, and festive celebrations – despite challenging weather conditions and an unscheduled stop in Santorini.
In addition to the rigorous scientific work, the crew experienced special moments of holiday cheer. Christmas began with an extraordinary gift: a successful dataset from the 3D seismic survey. A festive three-course meal, a lively exchange of secret Santa gifts, and a visit from Santa Claus—complete with traditional German Stollen and mulled wine—created a warm holiday atmosphere, even as the scientific efforts continued uninterrupted.
The high-resolution dataset from the 3D seismic survey over the Amorgos fault provided detailed insights into the complex geological structures of the region. Preliminary analyses revealed significant variations in deformation caused by the massive 1956 earthquake along the fault. These findings are crucial for understanding the origins of the historic tsunami and offer valuable information for future early warning systems.
At the same time, additional multibeam echosounder and Parasound data were collected, painting a detailed picture of sediment layers and volcanic formations in the study area. Among the findings was a previously unknown volcanic cone near Kolumbo, offering new perspectives on the volcanic evolution of the region.
A live call to the Natural History Museum of Asakeio schools in Athens brought the research directly to students attending from classrooms, the museum, or their homes. Professor Dr. Paraskevi Nomikou vividly explained the scientific work aboard the Maria S. Merian and life on the ship, while students eagerly asked questions. This initiative highlighted the importance of connecting science with society and making research accessible to young audiences.
The tests and deployments of the MOLA landers and the MOMO video sled also yielded valuable findings. Six MOLA landers were placed around the Columbo volcano, four of which were successfully recovered. The acoustic camera was used for the first time by the MOMO team. It converts sound waves into visual images by using several hydrophones to record the direction and intensity of sounds. This data is displayed as colored maps on which, for example, strong reflections are marked in red and weak ones in blue. The video sled documented the crater floor during several dives and identified an inactive hydrothermal spring as well as massive boulders originating from rockfalls. These observations offer important insights into the dynamics of the hydrothermal system and the nature of the crater - and also provided fascinating images of a world that otherwise remains hidden.
The final celebration was the New Year’s Eve party aboard the ship. After a BBQ and handcrafted piñatas, the crew gathered to ring in the New Year with enthusiasm and anticipation for their return. The expedition concluded on January 2nd with the ship’s arrival in Heraklion—a fitting end to weeks of intense research and unforgettable experiences.
With packed suitcases, countless memories, and numerous new findings, it’s time to return to the desk. Now begins the process of analyzing, organizing, and summarizing the discoveries made during this extraordinary expedition. Stay tuned to the blog for updates on the scientific insights.
📸 Find more impressions and updates on the expedition at MULTI-MAREX.
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