Loaning of OOI Assets
OOI assets may be available for temporary loan to researchers at any institution when it is not required for OOI operations. OOI Assets include infrastructure, instruments, gliders, AUVs, and an ROV. The U.S. National Science Foundation supports appropriate loans of OOI assets to maximize the use of NSF-funded ocean observing infrastructure and advance scientific research.
Requests are considered based on the availability of the assets, the proposed scientific use, and potential impacts to OOI operations. OOI operational requirements take priority, and all asset loans require review by the OOI Program Management Office and approval by NSF.
Borrowers are responsible for all of the costs associated with use of the assets and for returning it in its as-borrowed condition, including repair or replacement if the asset is damaged or lost. Additional requirements regarding asset custody, insurance, acknowledgement of NSF and OOI, and return of the asset are addressed through the OOI Asset Loan Process. Some assets might require expert operators that if not available at the requestor’s institution can be provided at an additional cost.
Researchers interested in borrowing OOI assets should contact the OOI HelpDesk. Please provide the asset being requested, the purpose and proposed dates of use, the sponsoring organization or funding source, and sufficient information for OOI to assess asset availability and potential impacts to OOI operations.
Requests are considered using the same process regardless of the researcher’s institutional affiliation.