August 7, 2012 Docked at Dutch Harbor

Delayed at Dutch

It is Wednesday and we are still docked at Dutch Harbor. The expedition has been delayed until a coffer dam has been built and installed. This repair on the starboard shaft will stop water from entering the ship.

Discussion and decisions by the heads of the repair

There have been several attempts to install the coffer dam but adjustments continue to be needed. Installing the coffer dam requires divers to enter the water and work several hours under the ship.

Lowering 1/2 of the coffer dam into the water

Late last night the team was able to successfully fit the piece into the shaft. Spirits are higher today amongst the scientists and Coast Guard as we may be under sail later tonight.

Video cam picture of the shaft after the coffer dam installation. It appears to have stopped the water!

Repairs by diver

Graduate student Austin Fox shared this short video of the diver jumping in to repair the shaft.