Science

From general exploration to routine monitoring, science plays a vital role in making decisions about the management of the sanctuary. Information gathered by the science team and our partners provides data to aid in determining how best to allocate limited resources and to effectively target the most important management issues of the sanctuary.

Independent research is encouraged at the site, but all research activities require a permit from the sanctuary. Interested principal investigators should contact the permit coordinator to discuss their research ideas.

Information about the science needs for critical management issues in Monitor National Marine Sanctuary is available on the NOAA Office of National Marine Sanctuaries website.

diagram of a USS monitor

USS Monitor

The Union's first Civil War ironclad, the USS Monitor changed naval warfare forever.

an image of light vessle ship

World War I

In partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard, NOAA conducts research and shares the story of the Diamond Shoals Lightship (LV-71), sunk by U-140 in 1918.

an image of an old sunkin U-boat

World War II

Learn about the expeditions to document North Carolina shipwrecks that sank in the Battle of the Atlantic.

3-d scan of a shipwreck

Living Shipwrecks 3D

In partnership with NOAA's National Center for Coastal Ocean Science (NCCOS), Monitor National Marine Sanctuary invites you to learn more about North Carolina shipwrecks and their significance as both ecological and historical wonders. Visit Living Shipwrecks 3D to explore sonar images and fish visualizations. And watch an archived webinar, Living Shipwrecks 3D: Exploring North Carolina's World War II Heritage, to meet the scientists and learn about the technology used.

Climate Change Impacts Monitor National Marine Sanctuary

The impacts of climate change are intensifying both globally and locally. Explore how Monitor National Marine Sanctuary is being, and is projected to be, affected by climate change. Learn about climate change at other sanctuaries and monuments.

report cover: diver swimming over the wreck of the uss monitor