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Should the OOI Pioneer Array Be Moved? If so, where?


January 4, 2021

Learn how you can be involved in the selection of the next Pioneer Array location
 
The Ocean Observatories Initiative Facilities Board (OOIFB) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) have launched a process to consider whether to move the Pioneer Array from its current location, on the New England shelf and slope south of Martha’s Vineyard, to a new location.  Selection of the next OOI Pioneer Array location, or decision to maintain the Array at its current location, will be driven by community input on the important science questions that can be addressed by the Pioneer Array.  
 
PIONEER MOVE MICRO LAB- Registration Required- January 13, 2021
 
An informational session, which we’re calling a Micro Lab, is planned for 13 January 2021, beginning at 1 pm Eastern (60-90 minutes). Representatives from NSF along with OOI Coastal and Global Scale Nodes (CGSN) Team, the current operator of the Pioneer Array, will present information about the selection process and technical details about the Pioneer Array. Individuals interested in applying for the Innovation Labs are encouraged to attend the Micro Lab. The information provided could be useful in submitting an application. To attend the Phase 1 Micro Lab, please RSVP here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe5F0u1PEhfG8VtYrsZsPMIBz-o3GW4Vi06A97LVG3dbpJGSA/viewform
  
FOLLOW-ON INNOVATION LABS- Application Required- Application due January 31, 2021
 
Members of the OOI community are invited to participate in this important decision via a two-phase sequential innovation lab approach that will bring scientists, educators, and other stakeholders together virtually to evaluate:
1)future location options for the Pioneer Array and,
2)new design considerations that can enable exciting research endeavors at the chosen location. 
 
The Phase 1 Innovations Lab, March 15-19, will explore possible locations for the Pioneer Array based on scientific questions that require an ocean observatory to advance knowledge. At the Lab, interdisciplinary teams will work together to ideate and develop a roadmap of possible locations including exploring new scientific, educational, and partnership opportunities. 
 
The Phase 2 Innovations Lab, in late spring/early summer, will come up with a plan to maximize the science gains and broader impacts of the potential new site. If a new site is recommended, the Array would be moved in 2023.
 
Individuals, not teams, will apply to participate.  Participants will be selected by the Innovation Lab Panel. Teams form as part of the Innovation Lab process.
 
Please visit the OOIFB webpage regarding the Pioneer Array location selection process at https://ooifb.org/meetings/apply-to-select-the-next-location-of-the-pioneer-array/.  The webpage includes a link to the application form to participate in the Phase 1 Innovations Lab. 
 
The application deadline is 31 January 2021.  Please visit:
 

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