Pre-Deployment
- Identify the buoy (spar or pole) that you will deploy
- Prepare an array that will work for that buoy type
- Attach Sensus depth sensor to the top of the array with a zip tie
- Setup SoundTrap recorder to record at the following settings (see screenshot below) and attach to brace on the array
- Set time (UTC) to start recording an hour or more prior than the planned deployment time
- Select channels 1 & 2
- 384kHz sample rate
- Check off ancillary sensors if available (log every 10s)
- Check disable calibration tones
- Click deploy
- A few hours prior to deployment, turn on the GPS and make sure it has a clear view of the sky.
- Check that it is pinging consistently over a few hours
- Make sure it is attached properly to the buoy
- Attach a strobe to the buoy using zip ties (see screen shot below)
- Pull out an anchor that is appropriate for the buoy you are using
- Note all equipment details in the Deployment Details Google Sheet
Deployment
- Ask the vessel captain to slow the boat to 2 kts (or whatever speed you need for bare steerage)
- Lay the buoy, array, and anchor on the back deck and attach all components to one another
- Set up a guideline for the anchor so that you can easily lower it into the water
- Communicate with the ship’s captain when you are ready to deploy
- With the help of at least one other person, lower the buoy into the water first
- Pay out the 100m of line that is attached to the buoy and the array
- Lower the array into the water gently
- Lower the anchor into the water with the guideline
- Mark the lat/long and time (UTC) in a GPS
- Record this information in the Deployment Details Google Sheet
