Skerries Coast Guard were tasked recently to investigate public reports that some maritime equipment had washed ashore near Rush, North County Dublin. From the descriptions provided, it appears that it may have been an Ocean-Bottom Seismometer (“OBS”).
These are a common geophysical instrument and are frequently used in the Irish sea to measure movements in the oceanic plates. Described as an aluminium sphere about 17″ in diameter, often bright orange or yellow in colour. They generally they rest on the seabed, but sometimes can break free from their anchorings and drift ashore. They pose no danger to people or wildlife.
A search of the area was undertaken however no OBS was located. It appears that it had been several days since the initial sighting was made before it was reported to the Coast Guard. It is believed that the OBS may have drifted back out to sea.
If any members of the public should spot one of these OBS, or indeed any other unusual objects at sea or on the shoreline, they should call the Coast Guard on 112 or 999 or VHF radio channel 16. The Coast Guard will arrange for specialist removal and disposal of the equipment.
