Describes a fleet of ships which provide a base for laboratory space and equipment shared by many scientists studying the composition and behavior of the sea and its boundaries. (Author/GS)

As oceanographic technology advances, the study of deep-sea environments is accelerating. Numerous ecological theories concerning deep-sea food relationships, environmental extremes, and life forms are changing as the environments of the deepest ocean trenches are studied. Thousands of new species are being discovered and studied constantly. (MA)

The theory of plate tectonics is discussed as it relates to connection, purported to be the driving force involved in the movements of the earth's crust. (SA)

Focuses on recent research on currents and eddies of the earth's oceans. Special emphasis is given to instrumentation involved in studying the oceans. (SA)

The future of the academic oceanographic fleet is discussed. The focus of the controversy surrounding the ships appears to be their size and fuel efficiency. Budget constraints and various ways in which to schedule ships for researchers are the primary concerns. (SA)