Hydrothermal Vents in Toto Caldera

While exploring hydrothermal vents of Toto Caldera in the waters of the Mariana Islands, the team used ROV Hercules' temperature probe to measure the heat of escaping fluids. The temperature range of vents (this one measured 99 °C) provides insight into the underground structure of the volcanic system. Beyond hot water, the team also flew among liquid carbon dioxide droplets (not gas bubbles!) released from the vent that remain fluid due to the extreme pressure at this depth. From geology to biology to chemistry, hydrothermal vents are a unique deep sea habitat that provides the Corps of Exploration on Nautilus and all over the world an opportunity to learn more about our planet. 

The Mattingan: Mariana Arc Volcanic Exploration (NA171) expedition is exploring deep-sea areas identified by the local management and science community, including sites with signatures of active volcanism, abyssal plain habitats, and areas in and around the Monument where new data can support resource management priorities. This expedition is supported by NOAA Ocean Exploration, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, and the US Geological Survey via the Ocean Exploration Cooperative Institute.