Expeditions

Mapping the vegetation of Diego Garcia Island, British Indian Ocean Territory.


Field of study
Plants
Funder(s)
Chagos Conservation Trust
Start
11/2018
End
/11/2018
Description
The UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) Programme and the Spatial Analysis Teams of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (Kew) expedition to the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) island of Diego Garcia (DG). The expedition took place from the 12th to the 28th November 2018. The visit was undertaken to enable ground truthing of the main and associated islands in order to validate, augment and give metrics for the vegetation map of these areas. The main objectives of the expedition were: - collect ground truth data on the terrestrial vegetation for Diego Garcia; - capture 360° imagery of the island as a baseline reference dataset for areas of special interest; - perform UAV flights (fixed wing) to capture as much of the island as possible; - collect data and plant material to increase our knowledge of native and invasive plant species, assemblages, abundance, habitats and overall distribution; - collect seeds and spores for RBG Kew’s Millennium Seed Bank for long‐term conservation and potentially for the island nursery to aid habitat restoration; - engage with BIOT scientific staff and military base volunteers on plant conservation activities. The expedition was undertaken with the consent of the British Indian Ocean Territory Administration, which provided the team with a research permit. The Kew field team consisted of Ms Sara Barrios and Mr Tim Wilkinson.
Expedition leader
Sara Barrios
Expedition leader email
S.Barrios@kew.org
Members
Publications
Sites

Seabird Ecology On Diego Garcia June/July 2018 Expedition


Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
6/2018
End
/7/2018
Description
The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and Exeter University, supported by the Bertarelli Foundation, visited Diego Garcia (DG) in the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT), during June and July 2018, to continue research to assess the importance of the Marine Protected Area (MPA) for seabirds. Using Red-footed Booby (RFB) as the indicator species, the research consisted of three objectives that built on fieldwork conducted on DG in 2016 and January 2018. The three objectives were: Objective 1: To document the year-round biology and foraging ecology of breeding RFBs at Barton Point Nature Reserve. Objective 2: To document the distribution of non-breeding RFBs from the colony on DG. Objective 3: To establish the status and distribution of breeding RFB on DG.
Expedition leader
Peter Carr
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Developing New Technologies to Monitor Ecosystem Health – Indigo V Expeditions


Start
4/2018
End
/4/2018
Description
The marine microbiome underpins the very foundation of ocean health. Despite this critically important role, we know very little about the microbiome except that it is very sensitive to climate change, particularly ocean acidification and rising temperatures. In 2018, Indigo V returned to further track the recovery of the reef, to field trial the latest version of our auto-sampling equipment, and collect water samples to look for virus diversity. There were some signs of recovery of the reef itself, but the water column was still very murky, which blocks vital sunlight from the corals.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

BIOT Array Servicing & Reef Shark Tracking Expedition


Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
3/2018
End
/3/2018
Description
As a component of the Bertarelli Program in Marine Science (BPMS), researchers from Stanford University, the University of Western Australia and the Zoological Society of London have established one of the key monitoring platforms for assessing how some of the largest predatory fish in BIOT are responding to their changing environment and threats posed by illegal fishing activity. Using acoustic and satellite tracking technologies the team can observe the movements, distribution, residency and connectivity of mobile marine predators both close to the reef and during excursions into deeper pelagic waters.
Expedition leader
David Jacoby
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Programme in Marine Science Reef 1 Expedition 2018


Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
3/2018
End
/3/2018
Description
The Bertarelli Programme in Marine Science Reef 1 Expedition 2018 aimed to undertake a survey of reef condition and especially reef recovery across the archipelago following the 2015-2016 warming events which had caused severe bleaching and mortality. In addition, instruments were deployed to build a more detailed picture of changes in environmental parameters affecting the reefs over time.
Expedition leader
Professor John Turner
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Sea Turtle Conservation Research


Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
9/2017
End
/10/2017
Description
This scientific expedition to Diego Garcia, British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) from 20 September to 13 October 2017 builds on previous conservation research on the ecology of hawksbill and green turtles in the archipelago. The primary objective was to increase understanding of green turtle movements within and outside of BIOT.
Expedition leader
Nicole Esteban
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Seabird Ecology Diego Garcia III


Field of study
Birds
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
1/2018
End
/1/2018
Description
On-going work, started in 2016, surveying the Red-footed Booby population and breeding popoulations in Key Biodiversity Area on Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Pete Carr
Expedition leader email
petecarr1@hotmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation: Shark tracking Expedition


Field of study
Sharks
Vessel(s)
Grampian Frontier
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
5/2017
End
/5/2017
Description
For the project, which was funded by the Bertarelli Programme in Marine Science, receivers that have been monitoring shark movements in the deep channels between islands were recovered from depths of more than 500m. These will provide a wealth of new data on ecological connectivity within the reserve.
Expedition leader
David Jacoby
Expedition leader email
david.jacoby@ioz.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Emergency Expedition


Field of study
Coral bleaching
Vessel(s)
Grampian Frontier
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
4/2017
End
/4/2017
Description
This expedition included three compnents a coral reef assessment, test hydrophone equipment for use in enforcement against IUU fishing in the Northern atolls and assesment of the CCT Ile Vache Marine rat eradication programme (detailed sperately). Post coral bleaching reef assesment included; i) extension of long term coral reef data sets, ii) integrating SST trends into coral reef resilience, iii) Measuring for future resilience via coral juvenilt abundance, iv) creating a video archive and, v) a 3D determination of reef structural complexity.
Expedition leader
Prof John Turner
Expedition leader email
j.turner@bangor.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

Ile Vache Marine Rat Eradication Project Result


Field of study
Rat eradication
Vessel(s)
Grampian Frontier
Funder(s)
Chagos Conservation Trust
Start
4/2017
End
/4/2017
Description
Expedition to confirm i) the outcome of the Ile Vache Marine Darwin Plus funded rat eradication project of 2014, ii) testing for rat reinvasion on islands, iii) monitoring whether rats were present on Ile da la Passe, Salomon and Peros Banhos Islands. Expedition also looked at populations of Sulidae (red footed and brown booby) in IUCN designated and proposed Important Bird Areas of Peros Banhos.
Expedition leader
Pete Carr
Expedition leader email
petecarr1@hotmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Seabird Ecology Diego Garcia II


Field of study
Birds
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
11/2016
End
/12/2016
Description
Expedition to identify the feeding and foraging grounds of breeding Red-footed Booby during the NW monsoon period in BIOT; (ii) To gather more data on the breeding phenology of the RFB sub-colonies on DG atoll; (iii) To collect further morphometric data in order to develop a tool for in-situ sexing of RFB.
Expedition leader
Pete Carr
Expedition leader email
petecarr1@hotmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Indigo UNESCO Indian Ocean Expedition


Vessel(s)
Indigo V
Funder(s)
UNESCO
Start
7/2016
End
/7/2016
Description
Objectives: 1. Environmental toxicology studies on harmful algal blooms. 2. Virology studies inside/outside atoll lagoons. 3. Collect plastic particles in the water. 4. Measure ocean pH for acidification studies. 5. Photo-quadrats of coral condition post-bleaching.
Expedition leader
Rachelle Jensen
Expedition leader email
rachelle@indigovexpeditions.org
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Seabird Ecology Diego Garcia I


Field of study
Birds
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
6/2016
End
/7/2016
Description
Expedition to establish boat drills, field camp routines and emergency procedures associated with field-based research activities in BIOT that satisfy BIOTA requirements, and establish field-based techniques and protocols in order to study the breeding biology and movement ecology of Red-footed Booby on Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Pete Carr
Expedition leader email
petecarr1@hotmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Pangaea Chagos Initiative Expedition III


Field of study
Fish and reef
Vessel(s)
M/Y Pangaea
Funder(s)
University of Western Australia - TeachGreen
Start
6/2016
End
/6/2016
Description
To document the status of reef fish assemblages within BIOT MPA, in particular the status and ecological function of reef sharks. Additional work to assess the intertidal ecology of reef flats of Diego Garcia using towed underwater sleds.
Expedition leader
Prof Jessica Meeuwig
Expedition leader email
jessica.meeuwig@uwa.edu.au
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation: Vava Expedition


Vessel(s)
Vava and Vava II
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
3/2016
End
/4/2016
Description
This expedition on board the Vava and Vava II from the 20/03 to the 1/04 2016, provided a unique occasion to support six scientists focusing on flagship species and habitats within the British Indian Ocean Territory or Chagos Archipelago. The primary purpose was to survey the mid-water fish.
Expedition leader
Tom LeTissier
Expedition leader email
tomletessier@gmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Coconut Crab Expedition


Field of study
Coconut crabs
Funder(s)
Dartmouth University
Start
2/2016
End
/3/2016
Description
Expedition to assess the behaviour ecology of coconut crabs on Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Mark Laidre
Expedition leader email
mark.laidre@dartmouth.edu
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Pelagic Expedition IIII


Field of study
Pelagic expedition
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
2/2016
End
/2/2016
Description
In February 2016, we conducted a pelagic expedition on board the BIOT patrol vessel the Pacific Marlin (BPV), designed to understand the physical and biological characteristics supporting the distribution, diversity, abundance, and potential recovery of pelagic predators in the BIOT marine reserve. Objectives: 1. To deploy mid-water stereo baited remote underwater video camera systems to study the ecology and behaviour of pelagic fish assemblages. 2. Collect information on fish and shark prey field distribution, enabling the interpretation of the observed patterns of fish and megafauna distribution and make conclusions on habitat suitability. 3. Measurements of conductivity, temperature, density (CTD) and turbulence to provide information critical to interpret observations resulting from objectives above. 4. Tagging of manta rays to track movements inside and outside the MPA. 5. Monitor the diversity, abundance, movements and distribution of seabirds.
Expedition leader
Tom LeTissier
Expedition leader email
tomletessier@gmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites

Pangaea Chagos Initiative Expedition II


Field of study
Sharks
Vessel(s)
M/Y Pangaea
Funder(s)
University of Western Australia - TeachGreen
Start
11/2015
End
/12/2015
Description
The second research expedition of the PCI programme was designed to build on the first research expedition (PCI Exped I), retaining the focus on the role that reef sharks play in regulating reef ecosystems and how they may impact the abundance, diet and condition of reef fishes. This expedition also requested permission from the UK Government to expand the research programme to include Diego Garcia. This request by the science team was made due to an apparent increase in illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the BIOT Marine Reserve.
Expedition leader
Professor Jessica Meuwig
Expedition leader email
jessica.meeuwig@uwa.edu.au
Members
Publications
Sites

Turtle monitoring and tagging expedition


Field of study
Turtles
Funder(s)
Darwin Foundation
Start
10/2012
End
/10/2012
Description
Monitoring nesting turtle populations and satellite tracking green turtles to monitor their migrations patterns inside the MPA and wider WIO area.
Expedition leader
Nicole Esteban
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The John Murray Expedition


Vessel(s)
Mahabiss
Start
/1933
End
//1933
Description
The John Murray expedition conducted bathymetry surveys, investigating the previous connection of the islands to mainland Africa and India.
Expedition leader
Lieut Comm Farquharson
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Eclipse Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
HMS Eclipse
Start
/1881
End
//1881
Description
Under the command of Cpt Garforth the British Navy surveyed Diego Garcia for steam navigation. Following this in 1882 the Orient Steam Navigation Company set up a coaling station on Diego Garcia. This would serve the steam vessels trading between the UK and East (even Australia) via the Suez Canal.
Expedition leader
Cpt Garforth
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Diego Garcia Settlement Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Admiral Hughes and The Napier
Funder(s)
The East India Company
Start
/1786
End
//1786
Description
In March 1786 shortly after Archibald Blair’s expedition the East India Company set out to establish a settlement on Diego Garcia. The officers in Bombay received the following from London: “To the President and Council of Bombay, We direct that with all possible dispatch, you send two small vessels from Bombay to take possession of and settle the Island Chagos or Diego Gracia, situated in 7 [degrees] 16 [minutes] South, which was visited in the year 1774 by the Drake Ketch. We rely upon your discretion to chose proper persons to be sent in these Vessels to take an exact Survey of the Harbour and Island, and to give an Account of its produce and the best means of settling it, to make it a place for Refreshment of Ships, and also what might be necessary to make it tenable against Attack, which by the Plan, it appears might be done at a very small expence, some of the small vessels from the Bombay Marine should be employed with Diligent and Intelligent Officers to examine and ascertain the situation of numerous Banks and Islands in that part of the Sea, as an accurate knowledge of those hitherto much neglected Seas, is essential to the security and navigation of the Company’s ships…” The expedition, onboard The Napier and The Admiral Hughes, the crew included Capt Sartorius chief engineer and surveyor of the Bombay Engineers (of the military detachment). The expedition carried a set of “secret orders” in case of disagreements with other European countries wishing to settle on the islands. Capt Sartorius, Mr Smyth and Mr Price continued their settlement attempt until November 1786 when they were evacuated.
Expedition leader
Mr Price, Mr J Richmond Smyth
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Blair Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Funder(s)
East India Company
Start
/1786
End
//1786
Description
In 1786 Lieut Archibald Blair conducted an expedition to the Chagos on behalf of the East India Company. The purpose was to gather specific information about Diego Garcia where the company had an interest in establishing a settlement. Blaire collected useful information on the atoll including dangers and safe points of harbour. Some surveys were also made surveys of the flora of the isalnds.
Expedition leader
Lieut Archibald Blair
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

D’Apres de Mannevillette and Dalrymple


Field of study
Exploration
Start
/1777
End
//1777
Description
Alexander Dalrymple worked as a hydrographer for the East India Company from 1779 and later the first hydrographer to the British navy in 1795, his skills in cartography made him a valuable asset during the beginning of the Napoleonic wars. He had a strong interest in the islands east of India and trading possibilities between them. Even during the British and French wars Dalrymple had a productive professional correspondence with French hydrographer M. D’Apres de Mannevillette, sharing information about British and French voyages around the Chagos the pair were able to create the most accurate maps of the islands to date.
Expedition leader
Monsieur D'Apres de Mannevillette
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Salomon Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Start
/1776
End
//1776
Description
Made observations of new islands, Salomon Isalnds and Bourne Island. www.lecfc.fr/new/articles/175-article-2.pdf
Expedition leader
Pierre-Jacques Bourde de la Villehuette
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Drake Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Drake
Start
/1774
End
//1774
Description
The Drake was comissioned to map the Diegp Garcia lagoon, with surveyor Mr Dickinson. The English were exploring the possibility of settlement on the islands (partially due to the French interest in them). They left sheep, goats and pigs on Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Cpt Adam Sheriff
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Swift Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Swift
Start
/1772
End
//1772
Description
Cartography expedition to explore Diego Garcia lagoon and the Brothers
Expedition leader
Cpt Thomas Neal
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Eagle


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Eagle
Funder(s)
The Governor of Bombay
Start
/1772
End
//1772
Description
The Eagle, which had been part of a voyage the previous year continued this exploration and mapping of the archipelgo started in 1771. Unfortunetly the captain and hydrographer fell out during the voyage, resulting in a duell on return to Bombay in which the hydrographer was killed and all the maps created on the voyage were lost.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Eagle and Drake Expedition


Vessel(s)
The Eagle and the Drake
Funder(s)
The Governor of Bombay
Start
/1771
End
//1771
Description
Sent by the Governor of Bombay to explore the archipelago with two marine engineers W Robinson and D Thomas.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Abbe Rochon Diego Garcia Expedition


Field of study
Exploration
Funder(s)
French Navy
Start
/1769
End
//1769
Description
This voyage included French astronomer Abbe Rochon who helped to fix the position of Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Abbe Rochon
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

La Vert Galant and L’heure Berger Expedtion with Abbe Rochon


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
Vert Galant and L'Heure Berger
Funder(s)
French Navy
Start
/1768
End
//1768
Description
The Vert Galant and L'Heure Berger visited Diego Garcia in 1768 (and possibly the following year) with Abbe de Rochon onboard who was astronomer to the French Navy. In 1769 Lieut La Fontaine reported “a great number of vessels might anchor there in safety; but the principal object is wanting: for though it is covered with woods, it is not provided with fresh water.” (although in fact the isalnds have very high rainfall). http://www.zianet.com/tedmorris/dg/realhistory-2.html
Expedition leader
Leut La Fontaine
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Lazare Picault, The Elisabeth


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Elisabeth
Funder(s)
French Navy
Start
/1744
End
//1744
Description
Conducted one of first surveys of Peros Banhos with a hydrographer onboard.
Expedition leader
Lazare Picault
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Grantham


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Grantham
Funder(s)
British
Start
/1728
End
//1728
Description
Early British exploration.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

The Stringer


Field of study
Exploration
Vessel(s)
The Stringer
Funder(s)
British
Start
/1712
End
//1712
Description
Early British exploration on route past the islands, following earlier Portugese exploration.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Ile Vache Marine Bird Habitat Restoration Reconnaissance Expedition


Field of study
Invasive species control
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Darwin Programme, British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA) Administration
Start
1/2014
End
29/1/2014
Description
Examined the habitat of Ile Vache Marine to ground truth the planned rat eradication methodology for the August 2014 expedition as suitable to the vegetation and environment of the island. In addition a number of islands where examined as possible sites for future erradication projects. The include: Ile Vache Marine, Ile Yeye, Ile Manoel, Sea Cow Island, Eagle Island.
Expedition leader
Jonathan Schleyer
Expedition leader email
jonslayer@hotmail.co.uk
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Ile Vache Marine
  • PB YEYE
  • Ile Manoel
  • Sea Cow Island
  • Eagle Island - Ile Aigle

Bertarelli Foundation Pelagic Research Expedition III


Field of study
Shark tagging and research
Vessel(s)
M/Y Vava II
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
3/2015
End
/3/2015
Description
This expedition focussed on array servicing, shark tagging and research.
Expedition leader
David Tickler
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Living Oceans Foundation Expedition


Field of study
Coral
Vessel(s)
M/Y Golden Shadow
Funder(s)
Khaled bin Sultan Living Ocean Foundation
Start
3/2015
End
/5/2015
Description
Between 7 March 2015 and 3 May 2015, the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation conducted two coral reef research missions as components of our Global Reef Expedition (GRE) program. Our primary objectives were to map and characterize the shallow marine habitats and assess the status of coral reefs and coral reef species within 12 locations in the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
Expedition leader
Philip Renaud
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Diego Garcia Expedition


Vessel(s)
None-land based
Start
3/2015
End
15/3/2015
Description
A brief research program was undertaken on Diego Garcia between March 4th and March 16th, 2015. The expedition made use of two existing expeditions to Chagos in February and March 2015. Two distinct research programs were undertaken: the first focused on collecting photo-transect images, which will be used to assess coral trait diversity to give insight into which reefs may be particularly sensitivity to stress and the second focused on assessing the extent of coral disease in Diego Garcia. Both research programs build on the aims laid out by BIOTA in the Interim Conservation Management Framework in several ways, which we detail in this report. Once the collected data has been analyzed the published research will contribute to the continued monitoring and conservation of the Chagos MPA.
Expedition leader
Dr Elizabeth Widman
Expedition leader email
e.a.widman1@gmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Pangaea Chagos Initiative Expedition I


Field of study
Shark ecology
Vessel(s)
M/Y Pangaea
Funder(s)
University of Western Australia - TeachGreen
Start
2/2015
End
/3/2015
Description
The aim for the expedition was to understand the role that reef predators (sharks) play in structuring fish assemblages. To this end, baited cameras, acoustic telemetry and diet and genetic sampling were applied to understand how fish behave across varying levels of shark diversity, abundance and size. The expedition visited the Egmont Atoll, the Three Brothers Islands, Peros Banhos Atoll, and Salomon Atoll.
Expedition leader
Professor Jessica Meuwig
Expedition leader email
jessica.meeuwig@uwa.edu.au
Members
Publications
Sites

Darwin Research Expedition


Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Darwin Programme
Start
3/2015
End
11/3/2015
Description
This expedition (Darwin 2015) is the third of three designed to help deliver the objectives of a Darwin Initiative project to Strengthen the World’s Largest Marine Protected Area, Chagos Archipelago, funded by Defra (UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs). The three year project aims to strengthen the Chagos Marine Protected Area by providing scientific knowledge for effective management, and develop a strategy that engages the support of potential stakeholders through outreach, education and engagement. The legacy will be sound management and increased value of what is currently the world’s largest no-take Marine Protected Area and a unique and globally important reference site.
Expedition leader
Dr John Turner
Expedition leader email
j.turner@bangor.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia
  • Salomon Islands
  • Peros Banhos
  • Egmont Islands
  • Blenheim Reef
  • Eagle Island - Ile Aigle
  • Middle Brother - Ile du Milieu
  • North Brother - Ile du Nord
  • South Brother - Ile du Sud
  • Danger Island
  • Nelsons Island
  • Resurgent Island

Catlin Seaview-Google Trekker Expedition


Field of study
Record Caitlin seaview and google trekker imagery and conduct surveys past diving depth.
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
XL Catlin, Google, Zoological Society of London (ZSL), Chagos Conservation Trust (CCT), British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA) Administration, John Topp Botany Fund
Start
2/2015
End
26/2/2015
Description
Record Caitlin seaview and google trekker imagery and conduct surveys past diving depth.
Expedition leader
Jon Schleyer
Expedition leader email
jonslayer@hotmail.co.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

Bertarelli Foundation Pelagic Research Expedition II


Field of study
Shark ecology. BRUVs.
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
1/2015
End
/1/2015
Description
Expedition aimed to characterise the habitat usage and assess the potential recovery of pelagic predators, particularly sharks, a team of scientists from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), Stanford University, University College London and University of Windsor travelled to the Chagos Archipelago to attach tags to these fish, as well as take samples for genetic and isotopic analysis. This was the first time an expedition was based from Diego Garcia. The expedition also included a small dcumentary making team.
Expedition leader
Tom LeTissier
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Diego Garcia Turtle Monitoring


Field of study
Turtle monitoring, turtle nesting beach temperature and morphology
Vessel(s)
None-land based
Funder(s)
British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA)
Start
10/2014
End
/10/2014
Description
This expedition looked at - Turtle monitoring, turtle nesting beach temperature and morphology.
Expedition leader
Nicole Esteban
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Ile Vache Marine Bird Habitat Restoration Expedition


Field of study
Invasive species management
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
DEFRA-Darwin
Start
8/2014
End
17/8/2014
Description
Invasive species management. Created a grid-work of baiting stations for rats.
Expedition leader
Pete Carr
Expedition leader email
petecarr1@hotmail.com
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Ile Vache Marine

Darwin Research Expedition


Field of study
Coral cover, temperature loggers,
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Darwin Programme
Start
3/2014
End
15/4/2014
Description
This expedition formed part of the three year Darwin funded project which aimed to gather scieintific data to strengthen the marine protected area. This expedition concentrated on the following research initiatives: Video archive for long-term monitoring of coral reef benthic communities, Understanding coral reef structure, Assessment of coral cover, Coral species diversity and abundance, Assessing coral disease prevalence, severity and susceptibility, Scleractinian coral functional diversity surveys, Documenting sea temperature, Diversity and population abundance of reef fishes, Assessing the contribution of parrot fish in reef erosion, Long-term monitoring of sea cucumber populations, Population assessment of the Coconut Crab, Birgus latro, Long-term monitoring of Important Breeding Areas for seabirds.
Expedition leader
Dr Heather Koldeway
Expedition leader email
Heather.Koldewey@zsl.org
Members
Publications
Sites

BIOTA Turtle Monitoring Expedition


Field of study
Turtle monitoring, turtle nesting beach temperature and morphology
Funder(s)
British Indian Ocean Territory Administration (BIOTA)
Start
10/2013
End
/10/2013
Description
Turtle monitoring, turtle nesting beach temperature and morphology on Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Nicole Esteban
Expedition leader email
n.esteban@swansea.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Bertarelli Foundation Pelagic Research Expedition I


Field of study
Pelagic fish, satellite tagging, acoustic tagging
Vessel(s)
M/Y Vava 2
Funder(s)
Bertarelli Foundation
Start
/2013
End
//2013
Description
Two consecutive field trips to Chagos on Vava II focussed on pelagic fish, satellite tagging and acoustic tagging. The first expedition from 04/02/13-14/02/13 included tagging fish and sharks and installing the acoustic receiever array. The second trip from 11/02/13-23/03/13 foccued on array installation. This trip also included a small documentary crew.
Expedition leader
David Tickler
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Darwin Research Expedition


Field of study
Coral cover, structure, juvenile corals, SST, video transects, cyptofauna, coral growth studies, macroalgae, sponges, black corals, reef fish biogeography, rugosity/erosion by parrotfish, ornithology,
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) Darwin Programme
Start
2/2013
End
/3/2013
Description
This expedition looked at - coral cover, structure, juvenile corals, SST, video transects, cyptofauna, coral growth studies, macroalgae, sponges, black corals, reef fish biogeography, rugosity/erosion by parrotfish, ornithology.
Expedition leader
Professor John Turner
Expedition leader email
J.turner@bangor.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

Pelagic Research Expedition


Field of study
Pelagic shark research, zooplankton acoustics, oceanography, pelegic ornithological surveys, large migratory predators, satellite tagging
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Start
11/2012
End
/11/2012
Description
Expedition leader
Heather Koldeway
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Reef Monitoring and Research Expedition


Field of study
SST logger collection and maintainance, fish surveys, video transects, photo transects, coral cover, reef fish biomass, cryptic species, birds, juvenile corals,pelagic fish, Shark counts, fish behaviour, genetic analysis of CoTS, shoreline erosion
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
Start
2/2012
End
4/3/2012
Description
SST logger collection and maintainance, fish surveys, video transects, photo transects, coral cover, reef fish biomass, cryptic species, birds, juvenile corals,pelagic fish, shark counts, fish behaviour, genetic analysis of CoTS, shoreline erosion.
Expedition leader
Charles Sheppard
Expedition leader email
Charles.Sheppard@warwick.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

Pelagic Research Expedition


Field of study
Pelagic fish
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Darwin Foundation, Bertarelli Foundation, University of Western Australia
Start
11/2012
End
/12/2012
Description
Pelagic shark research, zooplankton acoustics, oceanography, pelagic ornithological surveys, large migratory predators, satellite tagging.
Expedition leader
Professor Jessica Meeuwig
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Pew Filming Expedition


Field of study
Filming
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Pew Environment Group
Start
4/2010
End
15/4/2010
Description
Filming terrestrial and underwater footage for the purpose of collecting images and film in preparation for the declaration of Chagos as the worlds largest MPA. Resulting is a video for the Chagos MPA
Expedition leader
Jonathan Schleyer
Expedition leader email
jonslayer@hotmail.co.uk
Members
Publications
Sites

OTEP Expedition


Field of study
Coral ecology, SST, fish ecology, microatolls, sea level rise, birds, fish ecology, fish behaviour, geochemistry, holothurians, rapid assessment
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Overseas Territories Environnment Programme plus numerous institutions
Start
2/2010
End
3/20/
Description
Coral ecology, SST, fish ecology, microatolls, sea level rise, birds, fish ecology, fish behaviour, geochemistry, holothurians, rapid assessment.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Lagoon and Fish Expedition


Field of study
Lagoon ecology, fish biogeography
Start
2/2008
End
/3/2008
Description
Lagoon ecology, fish biogeography.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Eagle Island De-ratting Expedition


Field of study
Removal of rats for Eagle Island
Vessel(s)
Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
BIOT, FFI, DEFRA,
Start
2/2006
End
/4/2006
Description
Expedition involved camping on the northern on Eagle Island for 3 months cutting paths through the vegetation to create a system of 20m2 so that they could hand-cast (throw) bait for rats. Unfortunately the de-ratting efforts proved unsuccessful.
Expedition leader
Guntram Meier
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

OTEP Expedition


Field of study
Coral ecology, SST, fish ecology, soft corals, turtles, invasive species, coral geology, coral biogeography, birds, holothurians, coral diseases, rapid assessment
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Funder(s)
Overseas Territories Environnment Programme plus numerous institutions
Start
2/2006
End
/3/2006
Description
Expedition took place for 2 weeks on the Marlin, 2 weeek on Diego Garcia, and finished with 2 weeks on the Marlin. General scientific expedition to collect data on shallow reefs.
Expedition leader
Charles Sheppard
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Salomon Islands
  • Peros Banhos
  • Diego Garcia
  • Great Chagos Bank
  • Egmont Islands

Coral and Fish Survey Expedition


Field of study
Coral cover, recruitment, bioerosion, fish community composition
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Start
3/2001
End
/4/2001
Description
Coral cover, recruitment, bioerosion, fish community composition.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Victory Bank
  • Salomon Islands
  • Peros Banhos
  • Blenheim Reef
  • Colvocoresses Reef
  • Speakers Bank
  • Eagle Island - Ile Aigle

Coral Bleaching Survey Expedition


Field of study
Snorkeling survey after 1998 bleaching
Vessel(s)
BPV Pacific Marlin
Start
3/1999
End
/3/1999
Description
Charles Sheppard conducted snorkeling surveys to assess the damage after the 1998 bleaching.
Expedition leader
Charles Sheppard
Expedition leader email
Charles.Sheppard@warwick.ac.uk
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Victory Bank
  • Salomon Islands
  • Peros Banhos
  • Blenheim Reef
  • Colvocoresses Reef
  • Speakers Bank
  • Eagle Island - Ile Aigle

Friends of the Chagos Expedition


Field of study
Coral cover; Acropora ecology; Fish species list, shark counts, terrestrial fauna; Bird counts; Fungi collection for species list; Nudibranch species list and ecology.
Vessel(s)
M/Y Inga-Viola & MY Aztec Lady (2 x 18 m motor sailing vessels)
Funder(s)
Overseas Territories Environnment Programme
Start
2/1996
End
18/3/1996
Description
Coral cover; Acropora ecology; fish species list, shark counts, terrestrial fauna; bird counts; fungi collection for species list; Nudibranch species list and ecology.
Expedition leader
David Bellamy
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Ile Boddam
  • Ile de Poule
  • Ile du Sel
  • I Anglaise
  • Ile Takamaka
  • Ile de la Passe
  • Ile Jacobin
  • Ile Sepulture
  • Ile Diamant
  • Petite Ile Mapou
  • I Pierre
  • I Parasole
  • Ile du Coin
  • Ile YeYe
  • Nelsons Island
  • Middle Brother - Ile du Milieu
  • North Brother - Ile du Nord
  • South Brother - Ile du Sud
  • Ile Lubine
  • Ile Sipaille
  • Ile Tattamucca
  • Danger Island
  • Diego Garcia
  • Moresby Island

Isle Botanica Expedition


Vessel(s)
NA
Start
3/1995
End
31/3/1995
Description
Botanical expedition by a team from Isle Botanica, to survey and catelog the vegetation of Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Dr Arthur Whistler
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Joint Services Chagos Research Expedition


Field of study
Coral ecology and behaviour, fish species list, shark counts, mollusc ecology, oceanography, Halimeda physiology and ecology, reef ecology, reptile ecology,
Vessel(s)
M/Y Paille-en-Queue
Start
10/1978
End
/6/1979
Description
Coral ecology and behaviour, fish species list, shark counts, mollusc ecology, oceanography, Halimeda physiology and ecology, reef ecology, reptile ecology.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Middle Brother - Ile du Milieu
  • North Brother - Ile du Nord
  • South Brother - Ile du Sud
  • Ile du Sel
  • Salomon Islands
  • Peros Banhos
  • Diego Garcia
  • Great Chagos Bank
  • Blenheim Reef
  • Colvocoresses Reef
  • Speakers Bank

Joint Services Danger Island Expedition


Field of study
Terrestrial algae, Shark counts, coral ecology, insect species list, bird species list, island levelling, BBC film
Vessel(s)
M/Y Four Friends
Start
1/1975
End
/3/1975
Description
Coral ecology and behaviour, fish species list, shark counts, mollusc ecology, oceanography, Halimeda physiology and ecology, reef ecology, reptile ecology.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Egmont Islands
  • Eagle Island - Ile Aigle
  • Middle Brother - Ile du Milieu
  • North Brother - Ile du Nord
  • South Brother - Ile du Sud
  • Danger Island

Joint Services Egmont Expedition


Field of study
Birds, corals, surveying
Start
12/1972
End
/2/1973
Description
Birds, corals, surveying. Wikipedia quote: "In 1972–73 there was an underwater expedition to the Egmont Islands by the Joint Services (JSEI). Led by Sqn Leader “Dickie” Bird RAF, it was the first expedition of its kind in the Chagos. Cdr Alan Baldwin RN was the Deputy Leader and the scientific work was carried out under the direction of Dr David Bellamy.[4] Its aim was to study coral reef formation and growth, as well as the islands' flora and fauna.[5] The expedition members were taken from Gan, Addu Atoll by RFA Gold Ranger to Egmont Atoll and after their survey was completed they were brought back to Gan by RFA Stromness. Following its success, a second expedition was undertaken to Danger Island the following year."
Expedition leader
David Bellamy
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Egmont Islands

Sheppard Bird and Insect Survey Expedition


Field of study
Birds, Insects
Vessel(s)
NA
Funder(s)
Natural History Museum
Start
3/1971
End
23/5/1971
Description
Birds and insect surveys. Extensive photographic record during commencement of construction work. Recommends conservation area for indigenous hardwood trees near Simpson Point.
Expedition leader
A M Hutson
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Continental Oil Company Maldive Chain Cruise Expedition


Field of study
Geomorphology
Start
/1970
End
//1970
Description
Geomorphology
Expedition leader
R King
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Turtle Expedition Survey


Field of study
Turtles
Start
/1970
End
//1970
Description
Expedition to study the nesting hawksbill and green turtle populations. Beginning of a seven year study by Frazier of turtle populations in Indian Ocean and Chagos.
Expedition leader
J Frazier
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Hydrographic Survey Expedition


Field of study
Hydrographic Survey, Geography and ecology, marine and terrestrial
Vessel(s)
H.M.S. Vidal
Start
/1967
End
//1967
Description
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Geomorphology Survey Expedition


Field of study
Geomorphology
Vessel(s)
HMS Vidal
Funder(s)
Ministry of Defence Hydrographic Survey
Start
/1967
End
//1967
Description
Survey Of Diego Garcia Atoll conducted by the MOD with four accompanying scientists, with the purpose of making an ecological and geographical study of the atoll and make any necessary recommendations for the conservation of the atoll. Below is a quote from Dr Stoddart’s Scientific Studies at Diego Garcia Atoll. “The present investigation was carried out during June and July 1967 by four scientists attached to a British Ministry of Defence hydro- graphic survey carried out by H.M.S. Vidal . These were Dr. H. A. Fehlmann, Smithsonian Oceanographic Sorting Center, and Mr. C. F. Rhyne, Smithsonian Institution and now, the University of North Carolina, both nominated by the Smithsonian Institution; and Dr D. R. Stoddart, Cambridge University, and Dr J. D. Taylor, British Museum (Natural History), both nominated by The Royal Society. Stoddart and Taylor were on Diego Garcia from 1-29 July, Rhyne and Fehlmann from 10 June to 29 July. The purpose of the scientific party was to make a survey of the present status of the geography and ecology of the atoll and if necessary to make conservation recommendations. Responsibilities were divided as follows. Fehlmann made large collections of fish, which are being distributed by the Smithsonian Oceanographic Sorting Center; he also made smaller collections of other marine groups; of birds, particularly the Little Green Heron (Ripley 1969) and the Turtledove (Benson 1970); of reptiles; and of insects. Rhyne specialised on marine algae, and also collected land plants. Stoddart studied geomorphology and sedimentology, including lagoon floor sediments, and also collected land plants. Taylor concentrated on intertidal ecology and on the lagoon reefs, collecting corals, mollusca and crustacea; he also made some terrestrial collections, notably of land mollusca and of earthworms.”
Expedition leader
Capt C R K Roe
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Odling-Smee Bird Survey Expedition


Field of study
Birds
Vessel(s)
None-land based
Start
/1964
End
//1964
Description
Bird surveyed by Lt PG Odling-Smee on Diego Garcia while stationed there. Benson, C.W. 1970. The systematic status or thc form 01 Streptopelia picturata on Dicgo Garcia. Bull. Rr. Orn. - Club 90: 32-75.
Expedition leader
Lt PG Odling-Smee
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Vitiaz Beach fauna Survey Expedition


Field of study
Beach Fauna
Vessel(s)
Vitiaz
Start
/1961
End
//1961
Description
Involved a beach faunal survey on Diego Garcia Expedition
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Wiehe Plant Expedition


Field of study
Plants
Start
/1961
End
//1961
Description
Involved plant surveys on Diego Garcia, Egmont, Salomon, and Peros Banhos
Expedition leader
P Wiehe
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Loustau-Lalanne Expedition


Field of study
Birds
Vessel(s)
None-land based
Funder(s)
Secyhelles Department of Agriculture
Start
11/1960
End
/12/1960
Description
Involved a bird survey on Diego Garcia
Expedition leader
P Loustau-Lalanne
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Yale Seychelles Expedition (YSE)


Field of study
Abundance and diet of gastropods of the genus Conus
Funder(s)
National Science Foundation, State of Washington Initiative 171 Funds, Alfred C. Glasell, Jr
Start
9/1957
End
/10/1957
Description
Involved a brief visit to Peros Banhos to survey the microhabitats, abundance and food of Conus resulting in the publication Kohn, AJ. 1968, Ecology:1046-1062.
Expedition leader
A Kohn
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Ile du Coin

Mauritius-Seychelles Fisheries Survey Expedition


Field of study
Fish
Vessel(s)
Research vessel M.F.R.V. No 1
Start
/1948
End
//1948
Description
JFG WHeeler and FD Ommanney conducted a fisheries survey around both the Seychelles and Chagos for commercially valuable bottom fishes, estimating amounts available for exploitation. The results of this survey are summarized in their 1953 publication.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

HMIS Clive Hydrographic Survey Expedition


Field of study
Hydrographic survey
Vessel(s)
H.M.I.S. Clive
Start
/1941
End
//1941
Description
Cdr JW Jefford IN and Cdr RR Caws IN conducted a hydrographic survey of Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Wiehe Plant and Insect Expedition


Field of study
General. Plants, insects
Funder(s)
Mauritius Department of Agriculture
Start
5/1939
End
/6/1939
Description
Sampled plants and insects on Diego Garcia, Egmont, Salomon, Peros Banhos.
Expedition leader
P Wiehe
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Closel Mollusk Expedition


Field of study
Mollusca
Start
/1938
End
//1938
Description
Sampled molluscs in Diego Garcia
Expedition leader
J Closel
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Morin Plant Expedition


Field of study
Plants
Start
/1937
End
//1937
Description
J Morin sampled plants on Diego Garcia, Egmont, Salomon, Peros Banhos.
Expedition leader
J Morin
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Morin Mollusk and Crustacean Expedition


Field of study
Mollusca, Crustacea
Start
/1936
End
//1936
Description
J Morin sampled molluscs and crustaceans on an expedition to Diego Garcia.
Expedition leader
J Morin
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Percy Sladen Trust Expedition


Field of study
Geomorphology, marine fauna
Vessel(s)
H.M.S. Sealark
Funder(s)
Percy Sladen Trust
Start
7/1905
End
13/7/1905
Description
Geomorphology, marine fauna, birds
Expedition leader
Comm. B.T. Sommerville
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Deutsche Tiefsee-Expedition


Field of study
General, marine, fauna, birds
Vessel(s)
Valdivia
Start
2/1899
End
/2/1899
Description
The Valdivia was a nine month German expedition to conduct deep sea research.
Expedition leader
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Wilson Expedition


Field of study
Lichens
Start
/1889
End
//1889
Description
Study of lichens.
Expedition leader
R Wilson
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Vereker Expedition


Field of study
Hydrographic survey
Vessel(s)
H.M.S. Rambler
Funder(s)
British Navy
Start
/1885
End
//1885
Description
Hydrographic survey conducted by the British Navy that gave the most detailed charts of Diego Garcia to date.
Expedition leader
Hon FCP Vereker
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Bourne Diego Garcia Expedition


Field of study
Birds, Geomorphology, Plants
Start
9/1885
End
/1/1886
Description
Birds, Geomorphology, Plants.
Expedition leader
Mr G C Bourne
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Finsch Diego Garcia Bird Survey Expedition


Field of study
Birds
Start
/1884
End
//1884
Description
Bird surveys.
Expedition leader
O Finsch
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Hume Expedition


Field of study
Plants
Vessel(s)
H.M.S. Moorhen
Start
/1883
End
//1883
Description
Expedition leader
A Hume
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

Moresby Expedition


Field of study
Hydrography and Bathymetry
Vessel(s)
British Thetis
Funder(s)
East India Company, Bombay Marines (Indian Navy)
Start
/1838
End
//1838
Description
This expedition was part of Robert Moresby's, hydrographer for the East India Company Bombay Marines, wider work across the Saudi Peninsula and Indian Ocean gathering nautical data often whilst escorting coal ships. Moresby's survey which updated the information collected by Leut Blair was published in 1837. Whilst in Chagos he conducted a "thorough scientific survey" and some of his observations were used by Charles Darwin in his book 'The Structure and Distribution of Coral Reefs' published in 1842. Whilst on Diego Garcia Moresby planted 30 breadfruit trees. Possible participants, usually crewed with Moresby were Mr Christopher, Mr Young, Mr Powell, Mr Campbell, Mr Jones, Mr Barker.
Expedition leader
Comm Robert Moresby
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites

James Horsburgh Expedition


Start
/1809
End
//1809
Description
James Horsburgh was shipwrecked on the Chagos in 1786 whilst under the employment of the East India Company on the ship Atlas. Horsburgh later writes, 'The charts on board were very erroneous in the delineation of the Chagos Islands and Banks, and the commander, trusting too much to dead reckoning, was steering with confidence to make the non-existent Adu or Candu for a new departure, being their longitude nearby, by account, and bound for Ceylon; but, unfortunately a cloud over Diego Garcia prevented the helmsman from discerning it, (the officer of the watch being asleep), till we were on the reef close to the shore. The masts, rudder, and everything above the deck went with the first surge; the second lifted the vessel over the outer rocks and threw her in towards the beach". This experieince led him to create more accurate maps of the Indian Ocean and he became one of the formost hydrographers of the time. His specifically named "Directions for Sailing to and from the East Indies, China, New Holland, Cape of Good Hope, and the interjacent Ports, compiled chiefly from original Journals and Observations made during 21 years' experience in navigating those Seas" (also known as the 'India Directory') became the foremost work on oriental navigation in the first half of the 19th Century. His work included the first accurate maps of the trade routes used between Chagos, Maldives and Lakshapweep (then known as the Laccadives). "This Island is one of the wonderful phaenomena of this globe." JAMES HORSBURGH (1809, 131)
Expedition leader
James Horsburgh
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia

Abbe Rochon Expedition


Funder(s)
French Navy
Start
/1793
End
//1793
Description
Abbe Rochon, astronomer to the French Navy, returned to the Chagos islands to continue exploration and mapping, following his earlier voyages which helped to fix the location of Diego Garcia. Extract from Abbe Rochon, “I make it my province to dwell in this preliminary discourse on those objects only, which most excited my attention. Among the number of these I reckon, for instance, the harbour of Diego Garcia, and the prospect of the island itself is pleasant. We judged to have twelve leagues in circumference. Its form resembles a horse shoe. Its greatest breadth is not above a quarter of a league; the ground is however sufficiently elevated to serve as a fence and shelter to a vast reservoir of sand, which affords spacious room to the most numerous fleets. This level is four leagues long, and its main breadth is about one league. Its excellent harbour has two entrances to the north. The roads are extremely fine. Its situation I ascertain it to be in the 7 deg. 14 min. South Latitude, and in the 68 degree east longitude from the meridian of Paris.” (ABBE ROCHON (1793, 48-49)
Expedition leader
Abbe Rochon
Expedition leader email
Members
Publications
Sites
  • Diego Garcia