The Chagos marine reserve, designated in 2010 and currently the world’s largest no take marine reserve, is a sought-after spot for marine research, setting baselines for conservation initiatives worldwide. The scale, isolation and stunning life of this tropical reef archipelago make the scientific and technological developments going on there particularly exciting. Thanks to funding from the Darwin Initiative, regular expeditions are possible for the first time, allowing scientists from numerous organisations within and beyond the Chagos Environment Network (a group instrumental in ensuring Chagos’ protection) to explore and understand what a protected area of this size and quality can mean for marine conservation. Follow these scientists and others co-ordinated by the Chagos Conservation Trust here, as they share their experiences and developments from the heart of the Indian ocean.