Research and Support Capabilities at FISC St. Petersburg

Vessels

Platforms

The USGS also uses platforms for conducting scientific research on oceans and lakes. Scientists and technicians use pre-existing platforms, modular-floating platforms, jack-up barges, and specially constructed platforms. Platforms are used for diving, drilling, and extended work areas. A platform can serve as a stable work area for round-the-clock monitoring. A platform on an adjustable-height scaffold can take the place of a houseboat for studies in areas of high-wave energy.

A USGS diver prepares to suspend a vibracoring device beneath this floating platform in a Florida lake. [larger version]

USGS technicians used an existing platform for a bathymetric survey DGPS base station antenna on Lake Okeechobee, Florida. [larger version]

A jack-up barge was used by the USGS as a 24-hour work and living area for a geochemistry productivity project in Hawaii. [larger version]