National Geographic Remote Imaging is pleased to announce the Animal-Borne Imaging Symposium, a three day conference to explore the past, present and future in the field of animal-borne imaging research. The Symposium will be held October 10-13, 2007, at National Geographic Society headquarters in Washington, DC. The primary objective of this event is to provide a forum for current and potential users of animal-borne imaging, audio and data-logging instruments to discuss the research, conservation, and education implications of this protocol. Additionally, the symposium will engage an eclectic group of scientists, educators, and students in exploring how to use the unique data gathered in this research to inspire broader engagement in science and conservation.

DRAFT Symposium Schedule (PDF)



  • Keynote by Dr. Gerald Kooyman
  • Presentations on animal-borne imaging field research
  • Presentations on current and emerging imaging technologies
  • Panel discussions on future directions for research, data management and reduction, and the public outreach potential of these data

In addition to providing a forum for dynamic, interdisciplinary interaction among scientists, the symposium will include a significant public outreach component:

  • NG Live! Events will host a film and lecture series highlighting researchers whose work involves animal-borne imaging tools.
  • NG Live! Student Matinee will conduct an afternoon program for students and teachers, featuring stories and footage captured in animal-borne imaging research.
  • NG Education and Children’s Programs will present teacher workshops showcasing student-focused, curriculum-based animal-borne imaging projects for the classroom.
  • NG Museum will celebrate 20 years of Crittercam research with a 6,000-square-foot (557-square-meter) “Crittercam” exhibit at Explorer’s Hall.
  • NG Remote Imaging will document the event and interview participants for educational outreach efforts including films, interactive media and webcasts.
  • National Geographic Weekend, a talk show hosted by Boyd Matson, will feature researchers as they share the adventure and revelations in science made possible through animal-borne imaging.

Combined, these efforts promise an engaging experience for participating researchers, and an opportunity to connect broader audiences to the critical effort to understand and protect our planet.



National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Naval Research National Science Foundation