Launches acquire samples of the sea floor to determine good anchorage sites and for scientific knowledge. Bottom sample information is eventually placed on the nautical chart.

Bottom samples are obtained from various areas of a survey. A sample is obtained by lowering a clamping scoop to the sea floor. When it reaches the bottom, its mouth snaps shut. The scoop is raised, opened, and analyzed. A position is obtained during acquisition and a description of the sample is written.

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ENS Jennings analyzes a bottom sample on the launch.