The SeaOrbiter: The next generation of ocean exploration

[M II A II R II K]

The SeaOrbiter: The next generation of ocean exploration


By Timon Singh | 11/30/09 - 16:25

http://www.euinfrastructure.com/news/the-seaorbiter/

Whilst the oceans cover over two-thirds of the Earth's surface, they contain 99 percent of the living space on the planet and are home to almost 80 percent of all life on Earth. Remarkably, we have only explored 10 percent of that space, however French architect Jacques Rougerie is hoping to change that with his futuristic oceanographic station - The SeaOrbiter.

- Not just a scientific laboratory, The SeaOrbiter is also the world's first vertical ship, standing 170 feet (51m) tall, allowing explorers an unique view of life below the waves. What is also unique about the vessel, is that two-thirds of its structure remain underwater, giving the craft buoyancy as well a "fish-collection system for studies of the pelagic ecosystem, plankton biodiversity, and fish stocks."

- Comparisons have been made between The SeaOrbiter and the International Space Station (ISS), fuelled no doubt my rumours that both NASA and ESA (European Space Agency) are interested in using it. Not just that, but Jean-Loup Chrétien, the first French astronaut, is involved in the design of the ship and its anti-collision system is based on the one used by the ISS.

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[Jdawgboy]

Wow that is really neat.

[ChicagoChicago]

I'm in. So long as they don't mind me screaming "I'm the king of the world" from the bow.

Not sure that I buy that a storm couldn't obliterate it though.