A big part of any oceanographic cruise is the ability to get scientific instruments in and out of the ocean safely. Endeavor’s main working deck is where this often rigorous work happens. The main deck is outfitted with two overboarding frames called the A-Frame and J-Frame. The A-Frame is on the stern of the vessel and is easily identifiable by its “A” shape and can move instruments weighing up to 20,000 lbs. The J-Frame is on the starboard side of the main deck and can deploy instruments weighing up to 18,000 lbs. A small hydraulic “knuckle boom” crane can be moved about the deck as needed by the scientific mission. A standard feature of any academic research vessel is the 2’ on center threaded sockets on the working decks. Heavy equipment needs to be securely fastened or strapped down to the ship and these heavy duty sockets are rated to hold 5,000 lbs each.
Main Deck Images
