The Nemo expedition includes a diverse group of scientists and researchers studying the Axial Volcano. Specialists in seafloor volcanology, microbiology, vent biology, chemistry, mineralogy, and ocean engineering are involved including 33 scientists, engineers, technicians and 9 graduate students. They pulled up several senor packages and planted several others. Steve Babcock, from Five Oaks Middle School in Beaverton, was NeMO's teacher on-shore and explained cruise activities to visitors at the Hatfield Marine Science Center . The Coaxial Segment is peppered with sensors.
Technical papers explain the effort in detail .
The Pacific Marine Environmental Lab monitors dangers through their Research Projects including Tsunami , Vents and Ridge research. The Alvin checked out The Ridge in July of '95. The Gorda Ridge is frequently active . Seafloor Research is in high gear and the latest reports are available. The 303 foot Discover Research Ship studied the deep sea vents and El Nino which some climatologists say is a key to global climatic changes.