Dr. Jay Miller (Manager of Technical and Analytical Services, IODP/TAMU) stops in the core receiving area as he leads the tour. This is where the core sections are taken when they are brought from the catwalk. The sections are placed in racks (at left and in the background to the right) to equilibrate: the core sample temperature rises from 4°C (the average temperature of the seafloor) to room temperature. When the samples reach room temperature, then scientific measurements can begin. Equilibration is a part of the scientific methodology that helps maintain consistent experimental results. (Credit: Bill Crawford, IODP/TAMU) [Photo ID: exp351_003] Back to expedition photos.