The Vanguard, a cutting-edge subsea habitat, is set to launch early next year, marking the first of its kind in 40 years. Designed to accommodate teams of four scientists, Vanguard allows for extended underwater missions, enabling research activities such as reef restoration, species surveys, and even astronaut training. The habitat features modern amenities similar to a recreational vehicle, including convertible banquettes, a hidden microwave, and even a unique wet porch with a moon pool that allows for seamless underwater access without flooding.
What sets Vanguard apart is its innovative pressurization system, which matches the surrounding water pressure, allowing divers to remain at depths of up to 50 meters without the need for multiple decompression stops. This advancement significantly extends the time aquanauts can spend on the seafloor, opening new avenues for exploration and scientific discovery. Kristen Tertoole, Chief Operating Officer of Deep, emphasizes that extended ocean time can lead to groundbreaking discoveries in understanding Earth’s life support system, which remains largely unexplored.
The Vanguard’s advanced technology includes a tethered buoy system that supplies fresh air and water while ensuring safety during severe weather conditions. Designed to withstand extreme hurricanes expected in Florida over the next two decades, Vanguard has been certified by DNV, ensuring a high level of safety and operational integrity. Following Vanguard, Deep plans to roll out an even larger habitat called Sentinel, which aims to host larger crews and support long-term human presence in underwater environments. As Deep seeks to revolutionize ocean exploration, the successful deployment of Vanguard will be a significant step toward achieving this ambitious vision.
Source: The first new subsea habitat in 40 years is about to launch via MIT Technology Review