Papahānaumokuākea National Marine Sanctuary
Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument is the largest U.S. conservation area, encompassing 582,578 square miles of the Pacific Ocean around the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. In 2025, NOAA designated a National Marine Sanctuary within the Monument to provide further protections.
TOUR OF DUTY DATE:
June 2025
SCIENTIFIC PARTNERS:
Papahānaumokuākea NMS
NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries
OBJECTIVES:
Document the ecological, cultural, and historical importance of this sacred marine environment through film, photography, and immersive media.
RESULTS:
Two (2) FORCE BLUE veterans participated in 52 dives with NOAA scientists and support personnel. The 15-day voyage covered over 2,000 nautical miles and visited six atolls in the Papahānaumokuākea NMS. FORCE BLUE divers used 360° videography to enhance long-term reef monitoring and 3D modeling. Data supported Nancy Foster Scholar Kailey Pascoe’s assessment of coral reef responses to climate change. Three shipwrecks were surveyed using sketches, 360° mapping, GPS, and 3D photogrammetry. Work focused on identifying an unknown wreck on Hikinanalia Reef.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT:
FORCE BLUE supported NOAA National Marine Sanctuary communications spotlighting the ecological importance of PNMS. VR and 3D models will aid collaboration with the Mokupāpapa Discovery Center, blending Hawaiian culture with modern science for educational outreach. K–12 students from underrepresented groups will be engaged in STEM through VR and underwater live streaming to showcase coral reef life. The survey at Hikinanalia Reef will help identify a culturally significant vessel for the Hawaiian community.
