Due to the width of the bridge, observations were limited to a 90° angle from the bow to one side, as it was impractical for one observer to simultaneously cover both sides. Species were initially identified with the naked eye and confirmed using binoculars (8 – 10 times magnification). Photos were used in retrospect to help identify rare or hard to classify specimens. Individuals following or circling around the ship were only counted once in a 30 min interval (i.e. during one 'transect count'). Water temperature and salinity were continuously and automatically recorded by a thermo-salinometer installed at the keel of the Polarstern (approximately 10 meters below sea level). Depth data were obtained either from the vessel's echosounder or hydrosweep. Data extraction was carried out from the DShip data system on board.
Marine top predators (seabirds, marine mammals and other megafauna) were counted during POLARSTERN cruise ANT-XXVIII/5 crossing the Atlantic from Punta Arenas to Bremerhaven in spring 2012. Continuous half-hour transect counts were conducted by two observers from the bridge, situated approximately 18 meters above sea level, throughout daylight hours and while the vessel maintained its traveling speed (see Joiris & Falck 2011).