The Research Vessel Maria S. Merian in Santorini’s Caldera

The German research vessel Maria S. Merian continued its work today (December 12) within the caldera of Santorini. Since December 5, the vessel has been studying the submarine volcanic centers of Santorini and the underwater fault of Amorgos as part of the oceanographic mission MSM132. The mission is expected to conclude in the early days of the new year.

The lead scientist of MSM132 is Professor Christian Berndt from the Marine Geodynamics Research Unit of the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research in Kiel, Germany. Regarding the choice of the study area, Professor Berndt highlighted its history of numerous volcanic eruptions, some of which were highly explosive in the past.

Photo: The route of the research vessel from midday Wednesday, December 11, to midday Thursday, December 12.

The RV Maria S. Merian, measuring 95 meters in length and 19 meters in width, was built in 2006. It is Germany’s second most modern research vessel and is named after Maria Sibylla Merian, the German naturalist and scientific illustrator.

The vessel has a crew of 21 and can accommodate an additional 22 scientists. Equipped with multiple laboratories, it can carry up to 150 tons of additional scientific equipment in accessible containers, offering flexibility for research operations. Advanced features such as two azimuth thrusters, a side pump jet, and satellite navigation allow the vessel to maintain a precise position automatically. Notably, the ship can operate without harmful emissions for up to 48 hours (excluding regular engine exhaust), enabling research in environmentally sensitive areas.