Today we dove in the eastern area of the 13°20’ detachment. Previous to the dive Abyss AUV surveying provided us with detailed bathymetry maps. Combining these with sidescan sonar maps, we were able to pick out good targets for the dive.
Our investigations started on the detachment toe, where the sidescan sonar show a strong reflection. In order to figure out the nature of the contact between the striated surface and the rocks to the east of it, we made a thorough zig-zag traverse along the contact.
The next objective was trying to uncover the nature of the corrugated surface. We made a westwards traverse along the ridges and grooves, where we recovered rock samples.
Now we are deploying Abyss for further mapping of the 13°20’ core complex. Later tonight we are diving further south on the same contact.