Scientists studying the deep sea’s methane vent areas are discovering how the earth’s subsurface activity influences microbial life. Using underwater vehicles (UAVs), our collaborators collect core samples and other data across kilometers of the ocean floor that provide insights into the geochemistry and biology of the environment.

However, it is challenging for them to get an overview and analyse the wide variety of data including high-resolution images of the deep ocean floor, chemistry of underwater methane clouds and DNA of sea life. 

In collaboration with the Orphan Lab, we created OPAL, a visual mapping tool that allows researchers to simultaneously explore geochemical and microbial data in spatial relationships. Scientists can interact with AUV-based photomosaics of the seafloor indicating core locations. In tandem, biological data including diversity and cell counts can be seen in relation to geochemical data. The interactive tool helps illuminate methane vents’ spheres of influence on the composition and concentration of microbial communities.

The Orphan Lab uses autonomous submarines to scan the sea floor and collect samples.

Orphan Lab field notebooks. Clam fields are a key indicator of a rich environment around deep sea vents.

Designers’ sketches. These images visualize the methane vent spheres of influence and some UI components that would be used to interact with the data.

Designers’ sketches. These images visualize the methane vent spheres of influence and some UI components that would be used to interact with the data.

Remote discussion during the 2020 pandemic. We use structured dialogs to synthesize multiple interpretations of data into a coherent visual and interactive model.

Virtual brainstorming. Using off the shelf tools and fast prototyping software, interns generate a wide range of visualization and UI possibilities.

In 10 weeks we produce working prototype software.