What is NOAAs Ocean Exploration & Research Program?
NOAA’s Ocean Exploration & Research Program (OER) is a recent conglomeration of the National Undersea Research Program (NURP) and the Office of Ocean Exploration (OE). OER’s goals are accomplished within the context of four activities: 1) Mapping and characterizing the physical, chemical, biological, geological, and maritime heritage aspects of the oceans; 2) Understanding ocean dynamics in new places and at new levels to describe the ocean’s complex interactions; 3) Developing new technologies, sensors and systems to better meet exploration objectives; and, 4) Conveying to the public how and why unlocking the secrets of the ocean will benefit current and future generations. • OER funds expeditions to explore poorly-known and unknown areas and phenomena and provides baseline information to meet NOAAs mission. • OER facilitates expeditions by acquiring shiptime on NOAA’s and other vessels, and by equipping “explorers” with cutting-edge equipment including Human Occupied Vehicles (HOV),
