A new Irish Times photo essay and mini-documentary offer a behind-the-scenes look at life and science aboard the Marine Institute's national research vessel, RV Tom Crean, during a recent survey in the Celtic Sea.
The coverage, published on 26 October, follows scientists, technicians and crew during an August survey that included replacing the M5 weather buoy around 30 nautical miles south of Hook Head, Co. Wexford.
Through photography and video, the features show the expertise, teamwork and technology involved in conducting scientific research in Ireland's offshore waters.
Weather Forecasting and Marine Wildlife
One key operation featured is the replacement of the M5 weather buoy, jointly managed by the Marine Institute and Met Éireann. The buoy provides ocean and atmospheric observations that support weather forecasting, maritime safety, and scientific research.
Scientists aboard RV Tom Crean also investigated underwater noise and its potential effects on marine wildlife, surveyed marine biodiversity and tested approaches to locating lost fishing gear.
Together, these activities deepen understanding of Ireland's marine environment and support evidence-based management of ocean resources.
The People Behind the Science
Operated by the Marine Institute, RV Tom Crean supports research undertaken by the Institute, universities, State agencies and national and international partners. The vessel provides specialist facilities, equipment and expertise required to study Ireland's seas and changing marine environment.
The Irish Times coverage highlights not only the marine science being undertaken but also the people who make it possible, from researchers deploying instruments and collecting samples to technicians operating specialist equipment and crew navigating demanding offshore conditions.
“Every voyage on the RV Tom Crean helps build our understanding of Ireland's ocean, from improving weather forecasting and maritime safety to protecting marine biodiversity and supporting sustainable use of our marine resources,” said Aodhán Fitzgerald, Research Vessel Manager at the Marine Institute.
“This Irish Times feature offers a valuable opportunity to showcase the people, expertise and technology behind that work and to bring marine science closer to the public.”
The coverage lets readers see how research at sea contributes to weather forecasting, ocean observation, marine conservation, and the sustainable management of Ireland's marine resources. The Marine Institute also highlighted the vessel's wider work when it marked its third anniversary in 2025.
Readers can explore the Irish Times photo essay on RV Tom Crean and watch the accompanying mini-documentary. Further details are available from the Marine Institute's research vessels pages.
