Uncover the mysterious veil of volcanic ranges underneath the Coral Sea

Scientists are tasked with collecting data and specimens on the seabed to determine when these large volcanoes will be formed and find out if these volcanoes are still active.

On August 7, a number of groups of scientists from Australia and Scotland set sail on an expedition ship called Investigator, beginning their journey to explore two volcanic mountains beneath the Coral Sea , continental seas off the northeastern coast of Australia.

Leaving the city of Cairns in Northern Australia, the key task of Investigator scientists, at the Institute of Marine and Antarctic Research (IMAS), is to collect data and specimens on the seabed to determine the time. Point to form these large volcanoes and find out if these volcanoes are still active.

Scientists will explore two ranges of volcanoes beneath the bottom of the Coral Sea.(Source: abc.net.au).

In addition, another group of scientists will conduct research on the life of rich seabirds in this vast sea.

The head of the Investigator mission on this trip, Associate Professor Joanne Whitaker at the IMAS, said that the volcanic hotspots play a very important role in the development of the Coral Sea area. between Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and New Caledonia.

However, scientists still do not understand the time, scope and history of volcanic hotspots that are thought to have brought volcanic materials to the surface, forming tectonic plates. Australia.

The collected data will also help scientists reinforce hypotheses about the age and development of the seabed, the extent of the continental crust, and the long and parallel submarine mountain ranges formed. when Australia moved north above these volcanic hotspots.

According to Associate Professor Whittaker, exploring and uncovering the mysteries of the seabed will also help scientists better understand the habitat of the species of the area that are also home to the Marine Marine Park. Coral of Australia.

In addition, the collection of data on seabirds observed by scientists during this expedition will also play an important role in establishing future marine environmental management plans in Australia. .

It is expected that Investigator research vessel will return to Brisbane city on September 3.