Nó do European Marine Seafloor Observatory- Açores no Monte submarino Condor

The overall obejctive is to design, acquire, integrate, and test a fully equipped and operational fixed deep-sea observatory (EMSO-Azores-Condor) to be installed at approximately 800 m depth on the Condor Seamount in the Azores, enabling long-term monitoring of oceanographic and ecological processes in alignment with FAIR data principles and EMSO-ERIC standards. The EMSO-Azores-Condor project aims to design, assemble, and prepare a modular, lander-type deep-sea observatory for long-term deployment at 800 m depth on the Condor Seamount. The objectives cover technical development, procurement, integration, testing, and preparation for future deployment, aligned with long-term strategic goals. Design and Technical Definition The project begins with the technical design and specification of the lander platform, ensuring modularity and compatibility of all components. Engagement with suppliers guarantees component interoperability, and all technical and procurement documentation is prepared to support subsequent phases. Procurement and Equipment Acquisition All required scientific instruments and structural components—including physical, chemical, and biological sensors, acoustic systems, and lander hardware—will be purchased and tested. Equipment will be commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) to reduce technical risk, ensure interoperability, and facilitate integration. Integration and Assembly Sensors and subsystems will be assembled within OKEANOS facilities. The integration phase includes connecting all hardware and software systems, followed by functional and system-level tests to confirm operational readiness. Calibration and Testing All sensors will undergo calibration and final bench and environmental testing to validate measurement accuracy and system performance. A calibration and readiness report will document the results and confirm that the platform is ready for deployment. Deployment Preparation and Permitting Necessary permits for deployment at the Condor Seamount will be obtained, and detailed operational and logistics plans will be developed. Although installation is not part of this project, all technical and administrative measures will be prepared to enable immediate post-project deployment. Dissemination and Communication A dissemination plan will share project results, technical documentation, and research opportunities. Open science and FAIR data practices will be promoted, and collaboration with the EMSO-ERIC network will strengthen regional and international engagement. Long-Term Strategic Objective The project lays the foundation for a permanent deep-sea observatory node in the Azores. This infrastructure will enable continuous monitoring of Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs), support regional capacity-building, integrate the Azores into global observation networks, and contribute to research on climate change and marine ecosystems in the North Atlantic.