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To get baseline trilateration data of the major features, the team took multiple measurements from the baseline to specific artifacts to record their exact positions within the site. Churchill’s remains lie in only about 15 feet of water, so even small swells develop into a strong surge as they travel over the reef. Taking measurements across the site can be difficult in these conditions, but trilateration produces accurate data so is worth the effort. In this case, it proved very effective and the team succeeded in gathering a large amount of information about the site in spite of some large and aggressive ulua (GiantTrevally), which joined us on site in significant numbers. These fish (the larger of those on site weighing at least 80 pounds) are common in the NWHI and are known to be menacing - sometimes biting divers or even boat propellers!
Dive Three had the team continue mapping operations. At the end of the dive, the teams performed a diving emergency drill. These drills simulate real emergency situations that might occur while working in remote locations. They are performed to ensure that each team member is capable of assisting with the rescue, from getting the victim out of the water to transporting them back to the ship. The maritime archaeology team and coxswain of “HI-1” did a superb job of managing the staged emergency with confidence. To ask us questions, you can email the team at: sanctuaries@noaa.gov and we will answer your questions within the blog, or in a live internet broadcast later in the cruise. Again, stay tuned for details.
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