July 2022

man crouching next to large scientific instrument

SBIR-funded deep-sea methane spectrometer successfully undergoes field testing

NOAA Pacific Marine Environmental Lab, University of Washington, and OptoKnowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) successfully conducted the first deep water test of a new methane analyzer. This instrument can collect data that will improve scientists’ understanding of carbon cycling, greenhouse gasses, and sub-seafloor chemosynthetic reactions. The methane analyzer was developed by OKSI with initial funding from the NOAA SBIR Program and has since transformed into a Phase III collaboration. Read the full story

world map with locations highlighted across Pacific Ocean and Indian Ocean

Eruption highlights how NOAA technological innovation powers public safety, economic development, and scientific discovery

When a volcano in the South Pacific Ocean erupted in January 2022, NOAA researchers were well-equipped to study the multi-hazard event by sky and by sea. Key technologies and strategic partnerships made it possible for NOAA to issue warnings that saved lives around the world, while also collecting scientific data that will improve forecasting models and disaster response for future events.