Science of opportunity (SOO) is defined as follows: During a scheduled patrol
or deployment, the Coast Guard may allow scientists to deploy with the icebreaker
to take advantage of research opportunities on a not-to-interfere basis with
the planned missions. Scientists who deploy with the vessel are not charged
for icebreaker use other than the food consumed while aboard ship. Participants
are responsible for their transportation to the ship/port of call as well
as shipping any of their required equipment. It is important to note that
while science will be accommodated whenever appropriate, science is not a
priority of an SOO mission, and in fact, there is no guarantee that any science
will be accommodated during these missions. Science-related equipment on POLAR
SEA currently under repair and unavailable includes both J-frames and CTD/rosette,
however equipment can still be put over the side using cranes. Short-term
equipment tests in preparation for other cruises, meteorological and remote
sensing projects are the sort which have been possible on SOO cruises in the
past. Science making use of small boats and/or helicopters is not offered,
but may be available at the discretion of the Captain and mission availability
when combined with the primary mission profile of the patrol.
Highly specific time and geographic requirements cannot be guaranteed. Arrangements for sample-only requests will be the responsibility of the investigators. Investigators without sea experience, or who contemplate sending participants without sea experience, are very strongly urged by the UNOLS Arctic Icebreaker Coordinating Committee (AICC) to obtain relevant training, and to discuss plans and recommendations with an experienced participant well ahead of time. The AICC also very strongly recommends that all scientists who have programs selected for SOO missions attend a pre-cruise meeting with the Coast Guard. No other mechanism is as effective in promoting the communications vital to ensure success.
The Coast Guard and National Science Foundation will jointly select the participants for SOO cruises. The AICC's role is to facilitate communication between the scientific community and Coast Guard/National Science Foundation, including assembling information about potential SOO investigations and assessing them for suitability. Investigators are reminded that they may not use submission of an SOO request for AICC assessment to leverage agency science support.
For further details and/or to apply, please send a short email to the following two persons indicating research objectives and equipment needs:
Bill Wiseman, National Science Foundation, wwiseman@nsf.gov
Dr. Phil McGillivary, United States Coast Guard, philip.a.mcgillivary@uscg.mil