Development of 'Eye-in-the-Sea' (EITS), an Unobtrusive Camera System using Far-Red Illumination for Remote in-Situ Observation

该方案旨在探索在名为“海上之眼”（EITS）的相机天文台中使用低光水平（LLL）成像与远红色照明相结合的新前沿。一个原型系统已经建成，并作为一个独立的电池供电平台运行，可以在短时间内（~24小时）部署。该提案寻求资金将这一概念验证提升到下一个水平。新版本的EITS将被设计用于有线天文台，特别是MBARI。s的第一个MARS节点，提供实时、连续的海洋活动原位测量，记录自发的生物发光活动，进行光行为实验，记录食物掉落的演替模式，监测节点上的沉积物积累和冲刷。有线网络打开了一扇通往海洋的窗户，有望彻底改变海洋学领域。“海中之眼”将帮助实现这一承诺，它提供实时视频数据，让我们在不被人看到的情况下看到东西。更广泛的影响一位评论者评论说，使用相机的图像将促进公众宣传和教育工作。Widder是一位极具天赋的沟通者，在教学、讲座、电视节目、网络推广等方面有着出色的记录。威德博士擅长使用多种方法将她的科学成果带给公众。另一位说，这个项目最重要的贡献是它为研究深海底栖生物群落引入了一种新的工具。许多学科的科学家都能从这种新能力中受益。

This proposal seeks to explore the new frontier of using low-light-level (LLL) imaging in combination with far-red illumination in a camera observatory called Eye-in-the-Sea (EITS). A prototype system has been built and is operational as a stand-alone battery-powered platform that can be deployed for short periods (~24 hrs). This proposal seeks funds to take this proof-of-concept to the next level. The new version of the EITS will be designed for use on cabled observatories, specifically MBARI.s first MARS node, to provide real-time, continuous in situ measurements of marine activity, record spontaneous bioluminescence activity, carryout photobehavior experiments, document the pattern of succession at food drops and monitor sediment accumulation and scouring at the node. Cabled networks promise to revolutionize the field of oceanography by opening a window into the ocean. The Eye-in-the-Sea will help to make that promise a reality by providing real-time video data in a way that will allow us to see without being seen. Broader ImpactsOne reviewer commented that use of imagery from the camera will facilitate public outreach and educational efforts. Widder is an extraordinarily talented communicator with an exceptional record of outreach activities: teaching, lectures, television shows, web-based outreach, etc. Dr. Widder has been a master at using diverse approaches to bringing her science to the public. Another said that the most important contribution of this project is that it introduces a new tool to the study of deep-sea benthic communities. Scientists across many disciplines would be able to benefit from this new capability.