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Hands of a Master

June 25, 2017

Kent Sheasley, master of R/V Neil Armstrong maneuvered his ship to the dock in New York City to begin a port call during Fleet Week 2017. As an Ocean Class research vessel, Neil Armstrong needs to be able travel long distances (its maximum range is about 11,000 nautical miles), but just as important is its ability to stay in one place and to maneuver with almost ballet-like precision. In addition to being able to follow a pre-programmed course, the ship can also hold its location to within one meter (three feet) in good conditions can launch and recover instruments or collect samples. (Photo by Ken Kostel, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)