Technological Advances in Ocean Sciences Resulting from the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

Abstract

In response to the Deepwater Horizon disaster, many innovative researchers adapted instruments not previously used in oil spill research, or invented new instruments that would change the way ocean science is done moving forward. • From using normal cameras in extraordinary ways to designing new platforms for data collection, scientists collaborated in order to develop new and improved scientific methods to investigate the environmental impacts of the spill on the Gulf's ecosystem. • The marine science technology developed through the Gulf of Mexico Research Initiative (GoMRI) will be one of the lasting legacies of the program. These tools can be used in other bodies of water, for other spills, to improve the response, and mitigation of future disasters. • Developing or modifying existing technologies in order to answer specific research questions is common throughout the scientific process. In order to exemplify this process in the classroom, an associated activity will guide students through developing their very own drifters, just like GoMRI scientists did to understand currents in the Gulf of Mexico and where oil will go after an oil spill.