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

该提案旨在探索在名为“海洋之眼”（EITS）的相机天文台中结合使用微光（LLL）成像和远红照明的新前沿。 已经建立了一个原型系统，作为一个独立的电池供电平台运行，可以短期部署（约24小时）。 该提案寻求资金，以将这一概念验证提升到下一个水平。EITS的新版本将被设计用于有线观测站，特别是MBARI的第一个MARS节点，以提供海洋活动的实时，连续的现场测量，记录自发的生物发光活动，进行光行为实验，记录食物滴的演替模式，并监测节点处的沉积物积累和冲刷。 有线网络有望通过打开一扇通向海洋的窗户来彻底改变海洋学领域。“海中之眼”将通过提供实时视频数据来帮助实现这一承诺，这种方式将使我们能够在不被看到的情况下看到。更广泛的影响一位评论家评论说，使用相机拍摄的图像将有助于公众宣传和教育工作。Widder是一位非常有才华的沟通者，具有出色的外展活动记录：教学，讲座，电视节目，基于网络的外展等Widder博士一直是使用多种方法将她的科学带给公众的大师。另一位代表说，该项目最重要的贡献是为深海底栖生物群落的研究引入了一种新的工具。许多学科的科学家将能够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.