Dataset: Mysid movies - Damariscotta Estuary - Summer 2023

For in situ mysid behavioral observations, we have developed and deployed a custom-built stereoimaging system capable of capturing synchronized high-quality images at a high frame rate (up to 21 fps). Our current setup features Teledyne Blackfly S GigE cameras with 5 MP resolution, IEEE1588 clock synchronization, and PoE support. Navitar lenses, with focal lengths of 12 mm or 25 mm, are attached via C-type lens mounts to ensure compatibility. Lighting is provided by a TrustFire DF50 scuba diving light with white and red LED modes. The stereo housing, designed in-house, comprises galvanized aluminum structures and acrylic end caps housing optical-grade glass lenses. It offers flexibility in inter-camera distance and angle. Custom-made underwater DragonFish Ethernet cables facilitate power and data transfer, enabling live feed monitoring, synchronized camera frame storage, while also simplifying power management, thus extending deployment time. 

The stereo housing and lighting system are affixed to an aluminum bar frame, which is lowered into the water using a crane. Initially, the frame is positioned at a shallow depth for calibration purposes. An 8x9 checkboard pattern with a 10 mm square size, printed on an aluminum composite panel, is submerged for calibration. Synchronized images are captured by both cameras as the checkerboard is moved to cover the common field of view and focused depth. Once calibration images are recorded, the camera rig is lowered to the desired recording depth. Live feed monitoring ensures proper lighting and clear visibility before recording synchronized images commences. After sufficient images are captured, recording is stopped, and the stored data undergoes quality and synchronization analysis. Finally, details such as the data recording location, folder identification, camera synchronization status, and the number of recorded images are documented in our field notes before proceeding to the next data recording session. Calibration is typically required only once at each location.  File naming conventions: Maine2023_Pxx or Maine2023_Sxx as the naming protocol (for primary and secondary cameras, where xx represent the number of the dataset, e.g., P80, S80).