Behind the Science: Irish Times Feature Offers Rare Insight into Ocean Research Aboard RV Tom Crean

From weather forecasting and marine wildlife protection to cutting-edge ocean research, a new Irish Times photo essay and documentary take readers behind the scenes of life and science at sea aboard the Marine Institute's national research vessel, RV Tom Crean.

The weather forecasts we rely on, the protection of marine biodiversity, and the sustainable management of Ireland's ocean all depend on research carried out at sea. This week, a new photo essay and mini-documentary in The Irish Times offer a rare glimpse into that work aboard the Marine Institute's research vessel, RV Tom Crean.

The coverage follows scientists, technicians and crew during a recent research survey in the Celtic Sea, where the vessel supported the replacement of the M5 weather buoy off the Wexford coast while carrying out a range of scientific investigations.

Through striking photography and video, the features bring audiences aboard the vessel, showcasing the expertise, teamwork and advanced technology involved in conducting research in Ireland's offshore waters.

Science that matters

The survey demonstrates how Ireland's national marine research infrastructure enables scientists to better understand and protect our ocean.

One of the key operations featured is the replacement of the M5 weather buoy, jointly managed by the Marine Institute and Met Éireann. The buoy provides vital ocean and atmospheric observations that support weather forecasting, maritime safety and scientific research.

Scientists aboard the vessel also investigated underwater noise and its potential effects on marine wildlife, surveyed marine biodiversity, and tested approaches to locating lost fishing gear. Together, these activities contribute to a deeper understanding of Ireland's marine environment and support evidence-based management of our ocean resources.

The people behind the science

Operated by the Marine Institute, the RV Tom Crean supports research undertaken by the Institute, universities, State agencies and a wide range of national and international partners. The vessel provides access to specialist facilities, equipment and expertise required to study Ireland's seas and changing marine environment.

The Irish Times coverage shines a light not only on the science being undertaken, but also on the people who make it possible. From researchers deploying instruments and collecting samples to technicians operating specialist equipment and crew navigating demanding offshore conditions, the photo essay and documentary capture the collaboration required to deliver scientific research at sea.

“Every voyage on the RV Tom Crean helps build our understanding of Ireland's ocean, from improving weather forecasting and maritime safety to protecting marine biodiversity and supporting sustainable use of our marine resources. This Irish Times feature offers a valuable opportunity to showcase the people, expertise and technology behind that work and to bring marine science closer to the public,” said Aodhán Fitzgerald, Research Vessel Manager, Marine Institute

The feature provides a unique opportunity for the public to see first-hand how marine science supports informed decision-making, strengthens ocean observation, and contributes to the sustainable management of Ireland's marine resources.
Readers can explore the photo essay and watch the documentary using the links below.

Photo Story:

Surveying Ireland's seas on-board the RV Tom Crean 

A look inside the RV Tom Crean 

Find out more:

Marine Institute Research Vessels 
 

ENDS

About the Marine Institute
The Marine Institute is Ireland's State agency responsible for marine research, technology development and innovation. The Institute provides scientific advice and services to government, industry and other stakeholders, supporting the sustainable development, management and protection of Ireland's marine resources.

The Marine Institute operates Ireland's national marine research vessels, including the RV Tom Crean, providing essential research infrastructure and scientific capabilities to support marine research and ocean observation.

For more information, please contact:
Sinéad Coyne, e. sinead.coyne@marine.ie m. +353 (0)87 947 7090
Kathleen Sweeney, e. Kathleen.Sweeney@marine.ie m. +353 (0)87 094 5754
Communications Office, Marine Institute communications@marine.ie t. +353 (0)91 387 200

Image caption: Donal Kennedy, senior marine offshore services technician with P&O Maritime Logistics, inspects the recovered M5 weather buoy on the RV Tom Crean. Weather buoys need to be calibrated and cleaned regularly due to the extreme conditions of the sea environment. Photograph: Chris Maddaloni/The Irish Times