How deep can your submersibles go?
Our flagship submersible, the 'Abyss Explorer', is rated for depths up to 6,000 meters (approximately 19,685 feet). This allows us to access over 90% of the ocean floor, including most abyssal plains and many deep-sea trenches. We also utilize ROVs that can reach even greater depths for specific missions where human presence is not required or feasible. Each vehicle is meticulously maintained and certified for safety and performance before every single dive.
What is the most surprising discovery made by your team?
While we have made many discoveries, one of the most surprising was a vast, previously unknown cold seep ecosystem in the North Atlantic. This community thrives on methane seeping from the ocean floor, supporting a unique food web independent of sunlight. The discovery of new species of tube worms and crabs in this location has provided invaluable insights into the adaptability of life and the potential for life to exist in extreme environments on other planets.
How do you study ocean currents?
We study ocean currents using a multi-faceted approach. Our surface vessels deploy autonomous drifters that transmit their location via satellite, allowing us to map surface currents in real-time. For deep currents, we use Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers (ADCPs) mounted on our submersibles and deployed on seafloor moorings. These instruments use sound waves to measure water velocity at various depths, providing a comprehensive 3D picture of ocean circulation patterns.
Are you involved in conservation efforts?
Absolutely. Conservation is a core part of our mission. The data we collect on biodiversity hotspots, vulnerable ecosystems, and the impact of human activities is shared directly with international conservation bodies and governments. Our research has been instrumental in the designation of several Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). We believe that you cannot protect what you do not understand, so exploration is the critical first step towards effective ocean conservation.
Can students or volunteers join your expeditions?
Due to the highly technical and hazardous nature of our deep-sea expeditions, we do not have a volunteer program for at-sea roles. However, we offer highly competitive graduate student fellowships and post-doctoral research positions in collaboration with our partner universities. These positions often include opportunities for at-sea research. We also offer shore-based internships in data analysis, engineering, and science communication. Please check our 'Careers' section for current openings.
How is climate change affecting the deep sea?
The deep sea is not immune to the effects of climate change. Our research is tracking several key impacts, including ocean acidification, which affects the ability of corals and shelled organisms to build their skeletons, and ocean warming, which alters deep-sea circulation and oxygen levels. We are also studying how changes in surface productivity affect the 'marine snow' that provides food for deep-sea ecosystems. Understanding these changes is critical for predicting the future health of our entire planet.