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Providing Access to Advanced Technology |
Mixed gas scuba diving
NURP is a world leader in the use of mixed gases for
scientific diving. The NOAA Dive Manual produced by NURP is one
of the most popular scientific diving manuals in the world. Many
types of dive equipment are used to extend the safety and bottom
time of NURP scientists including nitrox, trimix, dive computers,
rebreathers, and saturation diving.
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Underwater
laboratories
NURP developed and operates Aquarius, the only mobile
underwater laboratory for saturation diving in the world today.
Aquarius allows scientists to live and work underwater for days
while conducting research outside the laboratory, and as such, is
our Nation's underwater equivalent of Skylab.
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Seafloor
observatories
Unmanned observatories, such as LEO-15 operated by
the Mid-Atlantic Bight center, are equipped with subsea sensors
and surface communications systems that allow scientists and students
to retrieve underwater data all the time, in real-time.
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Underwater
robots (ROVs, AUVs)
NURP is a national leader in the use and modification
of underwater robotic systems for scientific research. A variety
of systems are leased or owned by the program. Systems operated
by the NURP Centers include four remotely operated vehicles (ROVs),
customized for scientific sampling, that provide access to oceans
and lakes to depths of 330 m. Two new systems conduct research to
depths of 3000 m. By 1999, an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV)
will be featured at the LEO-15 undersea observatory off New Jersey.
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Manned
research submersibles
NURP co-sponsors the 4,000 meter DSV Alvin, explorer
of the Titanic and mid-ocean ridges. The Hawaii center operates
the Pisces V, a 2,000 meter sub equipped for science. Other submersible
systems are either leased or acquired through partnerships. Commonly
used systems include the Johnson-Sea-Link and Clelia submersibles
operated by Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute and the Delta
of Delta Oceanographics. Through a partnership with the Navy, the
NR-1 has been used for several NURP projects.
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Underwater sampling technologies
NURP develops improved sampling capabilities to ensure
that undersea operations are safe, effective and efficient. Specialized
sampling tools allow scientists to work at very fine scales that
are impossible to study by any other means. Thin layers such as
the interface between the water and the seafloor are critically
important to understanding how contaminants are cycled and commercially
valuable fisheries spawn, recruit, and survive.
More
-- Undersea
Research Areas
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