mysteries of the deep

Scientists are studying odd, pickle-shaped sea creatures they found off the coasts of Oregon and Washington. They’re known as pyrosomes.

A growing technology is helping scientists save time and effort when they study rare critters and vast places.

The Bell M. Shimada is designed to gather scientific information. But the collaborative effort of the crew and officers makes scientific endeavors at sea possible.

One single-celled oceanic organism could provide big answers to questions about climate change.

Phytoplankton make up an extremely important part of the ocean’s food chain, serving as food for organisms that feed young salmon and other fish in the ocean.

Scientists aboard the Bell M. Shimada keep an eye out for whales. One scientist hopes to help predict where whales will show up by studying the food they eat.

At least twice a year, a team of scientists on NOAA's research vessel Bell M. Shimada survey waters along the Washington and Oregon coast.