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At the Helm

Captain Derek Bergeron looks out a starboard window from the bridge of the R/V Neil Armstrong at the start of a recent cruise from Woods Hole to the continental shelf south of Martha’s Vineyard. Bergeron was standing in as “master” of the Armstrong for the ship’s regular captain, Kent Sheasley. The captain of a research vessel has overall command of the ship and is responsible for the safety of all on board. He or she also works with the lead scientist to ensure the safe completion of an expedition’s scientific goals. (Photo by Jayne Doucette, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution)