R/V Marcus G. Langseth Oceanographic Instrumentation: Navigation and Communications Infrastructure for Marine Seismic Research

This project provides funding to replace and modernize critical navigation and communications systems aboard the R/V Marcus G. Langseth, a specialized seismic research vessel operating as part of the U.S. Academic Research Fleet. The project will replace aging and unsupported motion reference, positioning, and navigation interface systems essential for maintaining accurate vessel navigation, dynamic positioning capability, and precise tracking of scientific instrumentation during marine seismic operations. These upgrades will improve the reliability and continuity of data acquisition supporting NSF-funded research investigating Earth structure and tectonic processes beneath the seafloor. The project will also help preserve a unique national capability for marine seismic research and ensure continued support for complex geophysical investigations requiring highly specialized vessel infrastructure. The upgraded systems will support researchers, students, and early-career scientists utilizing the R/V Marcus G. Langseth while strengthening operational resilience and scientific capability across a heavily utilized national research asset. Improved navigation and positioning capability will benefit NSF-supported marine geoscience activities by supporting acquisition of high-quality geophysical observations and maintaining reliable access to specialized seismic research infrastructure. The project also contributes to workforce development by sustaining technical expertise and operational capabilities necessary to support advanced marine geophysical research and education activities within the U.S. Academic Research Fleet. This award reflects NSF's statutory mission and has been deemed worthy of support through evaluation using the Foundation's intellectual merit and broader impacts review criteria. NSF Award ID: 2617204 | Program: 01002627DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT | Principal Investigator: Sean Higgins | Institution: Columbia University, NEW YORK, NY | Award Amount: $439,576 View on NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/show-award/?AWD_ID=2617204 View on Research.gov: https://www.research.gov/awardapi-service/v1/awards/2617204.html