Harborwatch Exhibits Charles E. Trail Naval Bridge Created in cooperation with the United States Navy, this interpertation of a Spruance Class destroyer features authentic hardware, live radar, weather and chatter from the ships passing outside, and an intriguing presentation of actual naval maneuvers. Tracking Stations   From the upper level of Odyssey, visitors have a commanding view of Elliott Bay. The Harborwatch exhibit area is equipped with real-time radar screens, binoculars and VHF radios. Touch screen computers help the visitor identify vessels in the Bay and give detailed information about each vessel’s speed, cargo capacity, and other particulars. Elliott Bay is a busy international harbor combining a rich diversity of maritime, commercial, and urban recreational activities. A variety of commercial ships visit Elliott Bay and Puget Sound ports on a regular basis. Vessel activity on Elliott Bay can be monitored  through radar images and on the marine radio Vessel Traffic channel. Traffic on the Sound In this exhibit, touch screen computers present a detailed program about USCG VTS operations and traffic safety. Large charts and panels at the rear of the exhibit delineate Puget Sound and Juan de Fuca traffic lanes, as well as USCG and Canadian CG VTS procedures and hand-off points. Vessel safety is of the greatest importance in these enclosed waters, and the traffic control function is undertaken cooperatively by the USCG VTS and the Canadian CG VTS. The charts also show the location of USCG radar and communication resources used to monitor and control vessel traffic in the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. Safety of ship traffic on Puget Sound is enhanced through a comprehensive scheme of monitoring, reporting, and communication. The Coast Guard’s Vessel Traffic Service tracks all commercial vessels transiting Puget Sound and adjacent Canadian waters. The International Tug of Opportunity System is an industry-led service that monitors the availability and location of tugboats capable of responding to an emergency. Weather Watch   Infrared Satellite Imagery from the National Weather Service A large photo and text panel explains the role of NOAA and the National Weather Service in providing up to date weather information to mariners. Weather and sea state information are critical to safe operations at sea. NOAA marine weather forecasts are monitored in real time at this exhibit. A variety of marine weather information is available to assist both commercial and recreational boaters plan for a safe voyage. Although Puget Sound is more protected than the open ocean, vessels still need to monitor the weather and know their own limits. Scientists rely on computer models, satellite tracking, monitoring, and personal experience to make accurate forecasts. The National Weather Service is charged with providing accurate forecast and warning information. Mariners can access weather information via commercial TV and radio, internet, satellite imagery, weatherfax, and NOAA radio over VHF. Top  |  Home  |  Information  |  Exhibits  |  Events Explore  |  Interactive Odyssey  |  Teachers Copyright © 2003  Odyssey Maritime Discovery Center