In a best-case scenario, crew members will use echograms and a fluorometer, which measures light emissions, to identify anomalies and scoop water samples from as deep as 1,000 feet below the surface.

But using these tools to seek dispersed oil in such a wide area is an uncertain endeavor, according to Larry A. Mayer, director of the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping at the University of New Hampshire.

"We're not 100 percent sure this will work," said Mayer, who is part of the mission. "But we'll be working night and day to figure that out."