MBARI is excited to welcome our neighbors from Monterey Bay and beyond to the 2023 MBARI Open House on Saturday, July 29, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at our research facilities in Moss Landing, California. This free, family-friendly community event offers an opportunity to learn about MBARI’s latest ocean discoveries and technology innovations. 

“The MBARI team is using cutting-edge technology to make exciting discoveries about the ocean right here in Monterey Bay. From AI that can identify deep-sea animals to robots that take the pulse of ocean health, we’re thrilled to invite our neighbors to learn about the groundbreaking science and engineering taking place at MBARI,” said Heidi Cullen, director of communications and strategic initiatives at MBARI. “We hope meeting our team, and learning about the diverse applications for ocean research and technology, will inspire a new generation of ocean explorers.” 

With two dozen interactive booths to explore, visitors to the 2023 MBARI Open House will have an opportunity to:

• Test their skills building and piloting an underwater robot.
• Chat with MBARI scientists, engineers, marine operators, and science communication experts, plus learn about careers in marine science and engineering.
• Get an up-close look at MBARI’s fleet of deep-sea robots and other technology innovations.
• Tap into their creativity and love for the ocean with an assortment of crafts and activities. 
• Immerse themselves in the ocean soundscape, and feel the booming vocalizations of the largest animal on Earth.
• Get a sneak peek at the FathomVerse game, and help train AI to identify ocean animals.
• Take a selfie with our 12-foot inflatable vampire squid for a chance to be featured on MBARI’s Instagram.

MBARI is proud to invite our longtime education and conservation partner, the Monterey Bay Aquarium, to the 2023 MBARI Open House, and highlight the work our two organizations have accomplished for ocean conservation. Open House visitors will also have the chance to learn about volunteer opportunities at the Aquarium and the Aquarium’s retail partner will have merchandise available for sale. 

Help us spread the word about the 2023 MBARI Open House to your fellow ocean enthusiasts! Download a poster (English, Spanish) to print or share with friends and family.

MBARI is located in Moss Landing, off Highway 1 halfway between Santa Cruz and Monterey. The Moss Landing power plant with its twin smokestacks is a visible landmark just inland of Moss Landing Harbor. From Highway 1, turn onto Moss Landing Road. Turn on Sandholdt Road and cross the bridge. MBARI is on the left side of the road.

There is limited free street parking around MBARI’s facilities in Moss Landing, California. The nearby Moss Landing Harbor District also offers some parking for a fee. Carpooling is strongly recommended. The event is wheelchair accessible, and limited accessible parking will be available on-site on a first-come, first-served basis.

For the health and safety of our guests and MBARI staff, the 2023 MBARI Open House will be entirely outdoors. The event will take place rain or shine. In the event of extreme weather conditions, please visit mbari.org/OpenHouse for more information.

For additional information or images relating to this article, please email pressroom@mbari.org.