Dr. Ballard and the Argonauts
explore the Channel Islands

Dr. Bob Ballard and his team at the JASON Project have developed an amazing educational program to share their expertise with students around the world. Ballard, a master explorer of the ocean, has not only helped to develop tools using state of the art technology to discover the treasure of our greatest natural resource, the ocean, but he has also learned how to make his scientific adventures available to students around the world. Ballard's commitment to sharing his passion for knowledge with others led to the creation of the Jason Foundation. The JASON Foundation for Education is dedicated to inspiring in students a lifelong passion to pursue learning in science, math, and technology through exploration and discovery.

These students are part of the Jason Project IV from the Shore to the Sea Expedition

To launch the Jason Project XIV expedition, From Shore to Sea, on the Channel Islands marine refuge required a major team effort, spanning several years and requiring the hard work of hundreds of dedicated individuals. The effort culminated in an intensive workshop that brought researchers, scientists and students, chosen from around the United States in the winter of 2003, to the coast of Santa Barbara, California, to explore the culture, environment and need to preserve the rich marine ecosystem that exists in the Channel Islands.

Inside the Production trailer where director Scott Munro calls the shots.

Using state of the art underwater observation submersibles, satellite imaging systems from NASA, and modern telecommunications systems, the learning experience is shared with students around the world. The team of students, also known as The Argonauts, and a host of scientists working with JASON add images, video and journal entries each day from their research post on the island and on shore at the Marine Insitute of Santa Barbara to the Jason Web site.

Teacher Argonaut Sue Sewell practices launching one of NASA's UAVs.

Dr. Ballard and his team have inspired thousands of young scientists to explore the unknown. They have led numerous expeditions, each with a profound respect for the ocean and a revolutionary desire to share this knowledge with others. There are so many new ways to gather and share information. Dr. Ballard and his team use new technology and communcation gathering tools to explore the unknown and bring a unique learning experience to children around the world.

Sarah Fangman in the Deep Worker submersible.