Today marks a new milestone for knowing and protecting Uruguay’s sea and marine biodiversity.
‘Uruguay Sub200: Journey into the Unknown’ is taking more than 30 specialists in marine ecology, underwater archaeology, deep-sea mapping, and marine geophysics, on a month-long expedition to explore the depths of the Uruguayan sea.
Sea exploration area
Coordinated by lead scientists Leticia Burone, from the Faculty of Sciences (FCien) at the Udelar University of Technology (Udelar), and Alvar Carranza, from Udelar’s Regional University Center of the East (CURE), this national project seeks to bring society closer to the sea, highlight its importance for the country’s sustainable development, and boost ocean literacy by linking science, innovation, and citizen awareness.
It has already piqued interest, and thanks to support from the government there are different platforms to ensure that everyone, from primary schoolchildren upwards, can access regular updates from Uruguay Sub200, ask questions about what mysteries are held in the depths, and find out what life is like for those onboard the research vessel.
The oceanographic expedition is taking place thanks to the the Schmidt Ocean Institute and their research vessel Falkor (Too) – and yes, that’s not a spelling mistake! – equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment. The Remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) SuBastian, for example, is especially eye-catching with its suite of sensors, robotic arms and scientific equipment. SuBastian can work at a depth of up to 4,500 meters. Livestreaming from the boat means that everyone can share this opportunity for first-ever views of the unexplored beauty and marine life in Uruguay’s sea, including deep-water coral reefs.
But it’s not all research and science. Alejandro Balbis, Uruguayan singer and song-writer, has joined the marine scientists on Falkor (Too). He plans to compose music inspired by his onboard experiences, capturing the essence of the ocean and its mysteries.
School children are also being encouraged to accompany the expedition. In collaboration with Gaia’s partner Mar Azul Uruguayo, students from the Costa Azul and La Paloma schools in Rocha have sent drawings, best wishes, and questions too, for those embarking on the Uruguay Sub200 expedition.
“Have a safe trip to the bottom of the sea.” “Are you going to see rare animals?” “What does it feel like to live so many days on an exploration ship?” “May you discover new things and return with many stories.” “Thank you for caring for and studying our sea.” “What new technologies are you using to study marine creatures?” “What are the greatest mysteries yet to be explained?” “Have fun! We look forward to seeing you back.”
Their words and drawings accompany all those onboard Falkor (Too). These children’s voices remind us that exploring is also imagining. Feeling part of Uruguay Sub200, tapping into innate curiosity and exploring the mysteries of the Uruguayan sea also means imagining a future where we live in awe of, and harmony with, a healthy blue planet.