Why do we explore?
“We know more about the dead seas of Mars than our own ocean “We know more about the dead seas of Mars than our own ocean.” ~ Jean-Michel Cousteau It is currently estimated that 95% of Earth’s oceans remain unexplored Recent satellite maps of Earth’s ocean floor show abyssal plains, shelves, trenches, sea mountains and ocean ridges, seemingly in considerable detail. Satellites can’t see below the ocean’s surface. The “images” of these features are estimates of the ocean floor based on the height of the ocean’s surface, which varies because the pull of gravity is affected by seafloor features.
Mapping Accuracy… To show our planet’s entire ocean, a typical wall map has a scale of about 1 cm = 300 km. At that scale, the dot made by a 0.5 mm pencil represents an area of over 60 square miles! The reality is that most of the ocean floor has never been seen by human eyes!
What are some reasons for exploration? Expand knowledge of the World Trade routes (to Asia – spice islands) Political Power – expand empires Economic interests – gold, silver, precious stones What about space exploration?
Why Explore Space? Understanding our place in the cosmos Gaining knowledge about the origins of our solar system Providing advancements in science and technology Providing opportunities for international collaboration Keeping pace with other nations involved in developing space technology.
NOAA’s Okeanos Explorer “AMERICA’S SHIP FOR OCEAN EXPLORATION” commissioned on August 13, 2008
http://www.youtube.com/oceanexplorergov
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? CLIMATE CHANGE
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? ENERGY Methane Hydrates contain roughly twice the carbon contained in all reserves of coal, oil and natural gas combined. Form as methane ice crystals on ocean floor
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? http://oceantoday.noaa.gov/medicinesfromsea/ Ecteinascidin – extracted from tunicates; being tested to treat breast and ovarian cancer Bryostatin – extracted from a bryozoan; potential treatment for leukemia and melanoma Conotoxin MVIIA – extracted from cone snail; potent pain killer HUMAN HEALTH
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? OCEAN HEALTH
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? RESEARCH
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? OCEAN LITERACY AND SCIENCE EDUCATION
Why is Ocean Exploration Important Today? TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION