Local Scientists and Students Embark on E/V Nautilus Expedition
Ten local scientists, students, and educators are currently aboard the Ocean Exploration Trust’s exploration vessel, E/V Nautilus. They are participating in a 20-day expedition to explore previously unsurveyed deep-sea habitats around the Hawaiian Islands and within the Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary.
The expedition employs remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) and seafloor mapping technologies to examine uncharted ridges, seamounts, and abyssal plains throughout the Hawaiian Archipelago. This journey features a diverse team, including early-career professionals experiencing sea expeditions for the first time.
Engaging the Community
Thanks to the vessel’s advanced telepresence technology, community audiences can join the team by live-streaming ROV dives and seafloor mapping data collection around the clock. This platform offers interactive opportunities to engage with explorers and contribute to uncovering new knowledge at NautilusLive.org.
Mahealani Akui, an undergraduate student from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo and ocean science intern on the expedition, expressed her hopes for the journey: “I’m hoping to bring back a better understanding of the deep ocean. Ideally, I hope to see the data implemented into broader scientific impacts, such as resource management and expansion of our biological and geographical knowledge within the Hawaiian Islands.”
Scientific Baseline and Future Research
ROV dives during the expedition will be crucial in gathering data to characterize deep-ocean habitats, biodiversity, bathymetry, and geological formations. This information will establish a scientific baseline for future research, resource management, and responsible ocean stewardship decisions. All data collected from the E/V Nautilus expeditions will be publicly archived to ensure permanent access to deep-sea knowledge.
Mission Legacy
This expedition marks the sixth mission for the Ocean Exploration Trust in 2026, the 19th in Hawaiian waters since 2018, and the 182nd since the E/V Nautilus’ inaugural season in 2009. The ongoing mission remains to utilize cutting-edge technologies to explore the underwater world while engaging curious individuals of all ages.
The expedition is funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Ocean Exploration via the NOAA Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute, enabling viewers across the Pacific and around the globe to participate in the exploration. Audiences can interact through real-time Q&A sessions and behind-the-scenes updates.
Opportunities for the Future
Educators and students interested in sailing on future E/V Nautilus expeditions can apply for paid internships and fellowships for 2027 at NautilusLive.org/join. The deadline for applications is October 15.
Meet the Team
Aboard this expedition are key individuals including:
- Mahealani Akui – Ocean Science Intern (University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo)
- Kelsie Pīkake Kuniyoshi – Ocean Science Intern
- Emily Palmer – Scientist (University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa)
- Gandharva Mahina Hou Ross – Educator (Molokaʻi High School)
- Gina Errico – Educator (Bishop Museum)
- Daniel Kinzer – Pacific Blue Studios
Additionally, the team includes technical members such as co-lead scientist Dr. Fanny Girard, navigator Meagan Putts, ROV pilots, and other specialists engaged in this groundbreaking ocean exploration.
Join in this exciting expedition as local talent explores the mysteries of the deep ocean!
