Location and analysis of sediment samples collected in 2014 by the U.S. Geological Survey offshore of Fire Island, NY (Esri point shapefile, GCS WGS 84)

The SEABed Observation and Sampling System (SEABOSS) was designed by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) for rapid and effective collection of seabed images and sediment samples in coastal regions. The observations from video and still cameras and the sediment data are used to explore the nature of the seafloor and, in conjunction with high-resolution geophysical data, to make interpretive maps of sedimentary environments and validate the acoustic remote sensing data. This particular setup of the SEABOSS was simplified using only GoPro cameras and dive lights to collect sea floor photographs and video without a top-side live video feed. Samples were recovered when the frame was lifted off the seabed and triggered the Van Veen sampler to close.
In general, the SEABOSS is a simple system that can be deployed from both small and large surface vessels and operates in water depths up to 200m. It typically incorporates two video cameras, a still camera, a depth sensor, and a modified Van Veen sediment sampler. The elements of this particular SEABOSS system are held within a stainless steel framework that measures 1.1 x 1.1 meters and weighs 167 kilograms overall. The frame has a stabilizer fin that orients the system as it drifts over the seabed. The SEABOSS was deployed from the M/V Scarlett Isabella off the ship's A-frame on the stern of the ship. The vessel occupied one of the target stations and deployed the SEABOSS. The winch operator lowered the sampler until the seafloor was sampled. On most stations, the vessel and sampler drifted with wind and current for a few tens of seconds to let the bottom settle and ensure a decent image. The system was then raised and recovered to the deck of the survey vessel.