Milestone Meeting Schrobenhausen

Dr. Thomas Kuhn (BGR) gave a wide inside into the findings of the last expeditions done usually during Oct - Dec in the Indian Ocean. Measurements results and findings from samples were presented as well as new topographic data about possible fields and mounds from dysfunct black smokers, their expected structure and related requirements for equipment.

The extend of marine life in active Black Smokers as well as the actual state of research regarding mounds without any hot-water activity were presented and discussed. Especially the topographic conditions of mounds - steep flanks, unknown material dsitribution, and uneven surfaces are a real challenge for any equipment to land and work.