TELVE Geoscientific Data 2003

This dataset contains geoscientific data logged during TELVE cruise (SS02/03) on RV Southern Surveyor 14.3-3.4.2003 in Tonga and Eastern Lau Basin. These data include logged station coordinates and information for dredges, CTD/hydrocasts, echosounder and camera/video operations and geological samples. The TELVE expedition completed 70 dredges, 31 tow-yos, 14 vertical hydrocasts, 9 echo-sounding traces, 2 camera tows, and 1 drogue test. The major scientific objectives of the cruise were a study of the hydrothermal plume activity of the Tofua Arc and adjacent Valu Fa back arc Ridge coupled with sampling of the sea floor with grabs and dredges. Sampling was conducted along the axis of the Valu Fa Ridge, the Tofua Arc between about 21o 30” and 24o 10’S, and one transverse hydrothermal cast from the backarc to arc region at ~ 22o 30’S was done. More specifically, objectives of the voyage were: 1.Perform a continuous along-axis survey for hydrothermal activity along the three segments of the Valu Fa back arc spreading ridge. 2. To the extent possible, conduct a systematic survey for hydrothermal activity along the S. Tonga arc adjacent to the Valu Fa Ridge. 3. Compare (for the first time) the incidence and chemistry of hydrothermal emissions along the adjacent back arc ridge and volcanic arc sections. 4. Coordinate results of back arc ridge survey with RIDGE 2000 investigators slated to perform similar surveys further north on Lau back arc spreading ridges.