New Submarine Will Allow Scientists to Explore underneath Ross Ice Shelf
21.12.2010 - Logistics, Water & Oceans, Ice & Snow, Antarctic
A new remotely operated submersible vehicle destiend for Antarctic exploration was presented at the American Geophysical Union by geologist Ross Powell from Northern Illinois University.
The vehicle features a hinged frame to go down a deep hole, which will allow it to explore the unknown of the Ross Sea underneath the Ross Ice Shelf. Once outfitted with a robot trailing a communication and power cable, the device will explore using an array cameras and sensors. Scientists hope to gain better understanding of the melting process that’s occurring underneath the Ross Ice Shelf once the submarine is deployed in 2013 or 2014.
Built by machine manufacturer DOER (Deep Ocean Exploration and Research) Marine, the robot will be able to virtually lead scientists through the deepest parts of the ocean, while sitting in a sphere of “massive glass”, allowing them to have 360° vision. Dubbed the Sub-Ice ROVer, will be made of fabricated fiberglass, aluminum, and will feature several motors and instruments.
Trial runs at Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border in the US are set to begin in March 2011.
