16 May 2022: Well, maybe the warm weather is actually here! Wouldn't that be great! Last week's post was well received - we bumped up to over 135,000 readers now (thank you all so much!) - and while the following is not exactly historical, we think it will lead to some historical finds and perhaps some amazing images! It's from the on line magazine Yachts International.
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The ‘first-of-its-class” world’s deepest diving three-person acrylic submersible was built by Triton Submarines LLC for REV Ocean. Its final assembly took place at the Triton facility in San Cugat, Spain. A deep-submergence vehicle (DSV) is a deep-diving crewed submersible that is self-propelled. The sub offers scientists, researchers and guests an experience in ocean observation achieving depths up to 2300 m (7500 ft). Aurelia’s huge acrylic sphere provides a truly immersive experience for occupants, with near 360-degree unobstructed views. The sub is also fitted with comprehensive scientific sensors, tools, cameras, and sampling equipment.
A public naming competition for the sub was launched in February and the winning name was submitted by Ivar Ruijten an ROV supervisor/pilot from the Netherlands. The name is fitting because it means gold, or “The golden one” (from the Latin Aurum) and because Aurelia aurita is the commonly seen moon-jellyfish which can easily be recognized by its distinctive four horseshoe-shaped pattern, seen through the top of the bell.
REV Ocean’s other deep-sea vehicle, ROV Aurora entered service in October 2021 and successfully dove the Malloy Deep and the Gakkel Ridge in the Arctic Ocean (3800 m), successfully sampling hydrothermal vents for the first time.
REV Ocean’s CEO Nina Jensen said, “Aurelia is absolutely incredible and perfectly designed for REV Ocean’s scientific goals and ambitions. With both Aurelia and Aurora now in service we have the best tag-team in the world for conducting cutting edge ocean science, education, and communications.”
The whole REV Ocean team was on site to observe the final certification (harbor tests) and participate in the baptism ceremony
Aurelia will now go through extensive sea trials around the Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean over the coming weeks to test its capabilities, performance and science equipment. The sea trial is the last phase of construction. Representatives from Triton, governing and certification officials, and representatives of the owner will participate. This will lead to Aurelia's certification for commissioning and acceptance by its owner.
Triton Co-Founder and President Patrick Lahey says, “Triton is proud to support Project REV Ocean’s ambitious initiative to dive deeper, explore further and learn more about the ocean. With the introduction of the Triton 7500/3 (Aurelia), it is now possible for REV Ocean to take a pilot and two crew members on dives as deep as 2,300 meters or 7,500 feet while they enjoy the most compelling viewing experience achieved to date from inside the thickest acrylic sphere ever created. Aurelia will also feature several other new technologies, which increase endurance, expand utility, and enhance effectiveness in ways not possible before.”
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So! We think this is pretty amazing and while it won't make it to the bottom of the Marianna's Trench (36,000' deep) it will show some pretty wonderful things that we have not before seen. And no, your humble scrivener will NOT be taking a ride!
Until next time,
Fair Winds,
Old Salt
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