Rapid Response Research at Hercules Gas Blowout
A science team from across the Gulf region sailed from Cocodrie, Louisiana, USA, on the R/V Acadiana to the Hercules site after the blowout that took place 23 July 2013. The vessel was loaded with ocean drifters to track movement of surface waters around the rig and with equipment to collect time-sensitive samples of water, air and sediment. Working with federal authorities, the research team received sampling access to within 500 meters of the rig.