Azores
Collaboratively exploring nutrient-rich seamounts in Azores, OceanX and local researchers uncovered important deep-sea habitats and implemented and maintained survey methods, supporting long-term protection of these biodiverse ecosystems.
Collected and provided data to inform decisionmaking around Marine Protected Area (MPA) creation and management.
Leveraged scientific findings to guide fisheries management decisions that prioritize ecosystem health.
Delivered essential hands-on training of region-specific skills to Azorean scientists for the ongoing production of localized data.
Mission Outcomes
Mapping depths and informing MPAs in the mid-Atlantic
On a groundbreaking mission in the heart of the Atlantic, OceanX created a 3D portrait of the Azores’ underwater world: mapping the seafloor in detail, documenting biodiversity, and revealing the dramatic contours of its seamounts. This deep dive into ecosystem complexity uncovered not only the region’s extraordinary richness, but also its critical role in maintaining ocean health.
The mission also exposed growing threats, including intense fishing pressures, underscoring the urgent need for data-driven decisions around Marine Protected Area (MPA) designation.
In a pioneering first, OceanX conducted a connectivity-focused survey of seamounts and marine corridors, revealing key migratory pathways for whales, sharks, and other megafauna—information that could reshape how marine spaces are managed.
Beyond data collection, the expedition invested in the future by training eight PhD students, empowering the next generation of ocean scientists.
Pushing the boundaries of marine research, the team also piloted new methodologies, combining eDNA sampling with animal tagging to track elusive species and set the stage for future conservation science.
Each of our missions results in discoveries published in peer-reviewed publications. View all our publications below.
Ocean understanding to drive connection
By helping facilitate Eddie Widder's feature-length documentary "A Life Illuminated" while in the Azores, we elevated a globally influential voice in ocean storytelling—one with the power to inspire people across generations to value and protect the ocean. This initiative not only advances ocean literacy, but also helps cultivate a broad, inclusive movement for marine conservation by inspiring diverse audiences to the wonder of the ocean world.
That same spirit of connection and empowerment extended into the field, where OceanX scientists worked side by side with Azorean researchers to build local capacity in cutting-edge marine science. Through hands-on training in deep-sea survey techniques, oceanographic instrumentation, megafauna tracking, and acoustic habitat mapping—including the co-design of bioacoustic surveys to study seamount prey fields—local teams gained tools to generate vital, region-specific data.
Together, these efforts reflect a holistic approach to ocean stewardship: amplifying powerful stories that inspire change while equipping communities with the knowledge and skills to drive that change forward.
seamount regions mapped for the first time
eDNA samples taken throughout the mission
remote Operated Vehicle (ROV) dives
of seafloor mapped in the Azores
What's Next?
A bluer future through deep-sea data and understanding
After the mission, local scientists presented mission findings to government decision-makers to advocate for the importance of protecting these areas.
The data collected on the seamounts and surrounding deep-sea ecosystems, including migration zones of sharks, rays and other marine megafauna, provided a strong case for protection. Using data from eDNA and tagging technologies paired with over 40 ROV dives and 3D mapping of the sea floor, we helped demonstrate the interconnectivity of the various ocean environments, which support a biodiverse and interdependent ecosystem. Data from the Azores mission informed the successful designation of three seamounts—Princess Alice Bank, Dom João de Castro, and Pico Island—as MPAs when the Azorean government announced the creation of largest network of Marine Protected Areas in the North Atlantic in October 2024. With a total of 287,000 square kilometers under full or high protection, the Azores protected a full 30 percent of the Azorean sea, meeting the UN’s ambitious 30x30 goal. This data will keep giving by providing insights to help develop future sustainable fisheries management approaches in this region.
The Azores hosts a vibrant, biodiverse ecosystem that supports species migration, foraging, and protection. Working in partnership with The University of Azores Okeanos, the mission’s scientific initiatives support sustainable ocean use and marine biodiversity enrichment while simultaneously equipping early career ocean professionals with skills in ecosystem-based management. In addition to the work done to explore and protect the region, our facilitation of the filming of Eddie Widder's documentary helped new people across the globe experience the ocean's wonders.
As we continue to illuminate the uncharted depths of the Azores and other understudied regions, we’re shaping a bluer future where people and the planet thrive.
